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Community Innovation Award, Presented by Honeywell

Community Innovation Award, Presented by Honeywell

Honeywell proudly partnered with the Carolina Panthers as the Official Community Innovation Partner to empower organizations using technology and forward-thinking approaches to uplift the community and create pathways for future success. Through the Community Innovation Award, Honeywell and the Panthers recognized seven nonprofits driving meaningful impact across the region.

The season-long initiative spotlighted organizations that are expanding access to STEM education, digital skills, workforce readiness, and opportunities for students and families. During each Panthers home game, a Community Innovation honoree was recognized for its work and received a $5,000 grant from Honeywell to further support its mission.

Fans voted throughout the season to crown the Community Innovation Champion. During the final home game, FIRST Robotics North Carolina, was awarded a grand prize grant of $20,000, supported by Honeywell and the Panthers.

Celebrating This Season's Honorees

Honeywell proudly celebrated seven outstanding organizations during the 2025 season:

Carolina Youth Coalition – Recognized for empowering high-achieving, under-resourced students to and through college with programs focused on STEM.

https://www.carolinayouth.org/

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation – Recognized for driving educational success and digital inclusion by ensuring free, open access to resources for all.

 https://foundation.cmlibrary.org/

FIRST Robotics North Carolina – Recognized for inspiring future leaders through high school robotics programs that build confidence, skills, and career pathways.

 https://www.firstnorthcarolina.org/

Digi-Bridge – Recognized for sparking interest in STEAM learning and ensuring equitable access for underrepresented students.

https://digi-bridge.org/

The Accelerated Training Program (T-ATP) – Recognized for providing underserved teens with foundational skills in AI, computer science, and cybersecurity.

https://www.t-atp.org/

Dottie Rose Foundation – Recognized for bridging the gender gap in technology through hands-on computer science education for girls and underserved students.

https://dottierosefoundation.org/

Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Foundation – Recognized for supporting teacher-driven innovations and school-based ideas that help students reach their full potential.

https://cms-foundation.org/

And the Champion Is…

After an exciting season of celebration and fan voting, FIRST Robotics North Carolina was officially crowned the 2025 Community Innovation Champion! The organization received a $20,000 grand prize grant and was honored during the Panthers' final regular-season home game. Their work continues to inspire students across North Carolina to embrace robotics, build confidence, and pursue careers in technology.