10-for-10 Program
Elevating Justice-impacted Leaders to Transform Systems
The 10-for-10 Program is Canary Impact’s flagship initiative, providing direct funding, mentorship, and resources to justice-impacted leaders of all ages working to dismantle inequities in the criminal legal system. It is a national network of leaders building the solutions that change systems.
At its core, 10-for-10 builds a collaborative community of changemakers, equipping them with the tools and connections to develop innovative solutions that inspire systemic transformation.
Why Leaders Choose 10-for-10
Betting on Success
The program uplifts justice-impacted individuals, supporting them as they transform lived experience into innovative solutions and meaningful community change.
A National Platform
Participants join a network of visionaries tackling critical issues across the country, from reentry and sentencing reform to disability rights and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.
Driving Long-Term Impact
By supporting leaders as they experiment, learn, and grow, 10-for-10 creates ripple effects that extend throughout communities nationwide.
Program Benefits
The 10-for-10 Program provides more than financial support. Participants gain access to funding, leadership development, mentorship, and a national network of changemakers committed to creating meaningful impact in their communities.
Catalytic Investment
Each participant receives a $10,000 financial award to advance their leadership journey and develop transformative projects.
Collaborative Network
Participants join a community of peers committed to systemic reform, fostering shared learning, resource exchange, and collective growth.
Cohort Connection
Participants join a vibrant community of peers, building a supportive network that encourages collaboration, shared learning, and collective action.
Tailored Leadership Support
Through mentorship and strategic guidance, participants gain practical tools to refine their initiatives and maximize their impact.
Building Confidence, Community, and Change
The 10-for-10 Program is a journey of creativity and confidence, demonstrating the transformative effect of investing in those with lived experience. We equip participants with the confidence, resources, and skills to lead change. With guidance from Canary Impact’s nationally-recognized community of coaches and alumni, participants develop innovative strategies to dismantle systemic inequities, building pathways toward equity and inclusion.
This program goes beyond individual success—it’s about creating a movement of leaders who are reshaping systems and fostering sustainable change.
This is the first time that we are resourced to do work that is so important to us without making us feel like we are less deserving.
Richard Smith
10-for-10 Participant
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 10-for-10 Program, candidates must:
- Have a history of incarceration
- Have an innovative idea that will lead to systemic change
- Reside in the U.S. and focus their work within U.S. communities
- Propose work that does not involve lobbying activities
- Have not previously received Canary Impact’s 10-for-10 Prize.
Past Program Participants
Meet the inspiring leaders driving impact in their communities.
Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey
Join a national network of changemakers and gain access to the resources, mentorship, and support needed to advance your work and expand it.