Is this paid? #

No. It's a volunteer opportunity with project funding, not a job.

Is this for students?#

This opportunity isn’t primarily designed for traditional high school or college students, as we have other ways for you to get involved in our work! However, if you are a part-time student, Creative Justice Lab winner, adult learner, or someone later in your career/education journey, you’re welcome to apply. We’ll consider applicants on a case-by-case basis, and our team will evaluate fit based on experience, goals, and alignment with the program’s intent.

Do I need to be in California? #

We are increasingly investing in the local community where The Difference Engine is based and prioritize applicants based in Southern California. Those from outside this area can still apply, and their application will be considered on a case by case basis.

What happens if I miss meetings?#

Attendance is required. If you miss two meetings, you may be removed from the program.

Will students build my project for me?#

No. ASU student workers are supplementary helpers, think interns, not staff. Their class schedules always come first, and support depends on each student's skills and availability. Plan a project that works without student help, and treat any you receive as acceleration.

Will you help me launch and scale?#

We take you from idea to pitch. DifferenceCorps is a light-touch nudge (what we think is the biggest hurdle for community entrepreneurs), not a full-scale incubator or accelerator. Launch, first customers, and scale come after BUILD, and we're glad to point you toward next-stage resources when you get there.

Do I have to credit The Difference Engine?#

Yes. During the program and for at least one year after it ends, your project's public-facing materials should carry a "Backed by The Difference Engine" or "Incubated by The Difference Engine" credit with our logo. Details available in the Handbook, or drop the staff a note to learn more.

What if my project isn't working? #

Our structure gives natural points to reassess and pivot based on community feedback.

Can I apply as a team? #

Yes. Team members apply individually but indicate they want to work together.

How is this different from Distinguished Innovation Fellows? #

DIF is comprehensive and fee-based, with intensive support from faculty, with weekly colloquiums, access to ASU classes, staff and facilities like labs and maker spaces. DifferenceCorps is a remote program for self-starters who need minimal supervision and resources.

What are the key differences between DIF and DifferenceCorps?

• DIF: An immersive, ten-month, fee-based fellowship for adults 50+ seeking structured learning, mentorship, and university access while developing solutions to major social challenges.
• DifferenceCorps: A six-month, remote, no-cost program for self-starters of various ages ready to independently build projects addressing inequality with minimal supervision.

Who should apply to DIF?

• Accomplished professionals 50+ looking for deep faculty engagement, access to university classes, and a structured, immersive learning environment to launch a significant social-impact project.

Who should apply to DifferenceCorps?

• Motivated change-makers, including displaced workers, nonprofit professionals, or mid-career changers, who can work independently and want to create practical solutions to inequality.

What kind of support will I receive?

• DIF: Direct mentorship with faculty thought partners, weekly seminars, access to ASU classes, and university facilities such as labs and maker spaces.
• DifferenceCorps: Guidance through structured project cycles, light coaching, access to  digital tools, and peer cohort feedback.

What is the time commitment?

• DIF: Full engagement over eight months, including classes, seminars, mentoring, and collaborative projects.
• DifferenceCorps: 5–10 hours per month for six months, with a flexible schedule.

Is there a cost to participate?

• DIF: Yes. Due to its comprehensive support, DIF is a fee-based program.
• DifferenceCorps: No cost to participate.

What types of projects are developed in DIF?

• Projects often tackle global or national-scale social issues and may result in research-based ventures, nonprofits, or advocacy initiatives.

What types of projects are developed in DifferenceCorps?

• Practical, community-centered initiatives that create measurable impact, with an emphasis on rapid prototyping and implementation.

What do participants gain from each program?

• DIF: Deeper learning, academic resources, strong mentorship, and a culminating showcase of their project to academic and professional audiences.
• DifferenceCorps: Hands-on experience building solutions, cohort collaboration, and exposure to social impact networks.

Can I apply to both programs?

• You can explore both but should choose the program best suited to your level of independence, desired structure, and stage of professional development.