Challenge timeline

Phase 1 began and submissions opened.

Solvers had the opportunity to learn more from VA leadership, get an overview of challenge details, and participate in a Q&A with VA’s Mission Daybreak team.

Solvers had the opportunity to hear from Veteran representatives as they discussed Veteran experiences, including the difficulties of transitioning from military to civilian life, what makes Veteran experiences unique, and meeting Veteran needs.

Solvers had the opportunity to hear from experts in suicide prevention, data, and privacy about how to use technology and data in support of mental health and suicide prevention initiatives.

Solvers were required to submit detailed concepts by 4:59 p.m. EDT.

Expert reviewers and judges assessed submissions based on the Phase 1 evaluation criteria.

Mission Daybreak awarded $8.5 million in Phase 1 prizes: 30 finalists each received $250,000 and advanced to Phase 2; an additional 10 teams each received a Promise Award of $100,000.

30 finalist teams spent eight weeks advancing their solutions. Finalists received access to data, research, mentorship, partnership opportunities, and other tailored resources.

Finalists were required to submit refined solutions by 4:59 p.m. EDT.

Finalists presented their solutions at a live pitch event.

A panel of expert judges assessed finalist submissions based on the Phase 2 evaluation criteria.

The Mission Daybreak grand challenge awarded $11.5 million in Phase 2 prizes: Two first-place winners each received $3 million, three second-place winners each received $1 million, and five third-place winners each received $500,000.