Over the last few months, Green Map System has been taking part in competitions that address non-profit needs in a new way. They have incorporated social networking so that every participant has the chance to benefit, even if they don't win the top prize. Here's what I like about it:

Unlike a regular grant proposal, our proposals are not expressed privately to a foundation. Plans are shared openly, so the potential to reach new supporters and participants is greater.

In many cases, people can comment on your entry and help to improve it! Try it out - you can comment on our Ashoka Changemakers Geotourism Challenge entry until 16 April. Your comments will help the judges choose our project as a finalist.

In some cases, the public is the jury! This is the case in the Netsquared Mashup Challenge - there, you must vote for at least 5 entries, which means perusing all the entries. If you are interested in the cutting edge of mapping for social benefit, mashed up with Google Map technology and other online resources, check it out. You can vote for our entry through 24 March!

UPDATE: Our entry is now a Featured Project, so we'll be taking part in May's conference and learning from many mashup and social media experts in person!! Thanks to all who voted and helped make this happen!

The potential to create a new social network of supporters because of these competitions is great. For example, more than 150 brand new donors found us through our Global Giving entry in America's Giving Challenge in January. On top of all the 'friend-raising' we won a Superlative Award and an additional cash prize!

It's fun to put these entries together, too! Images, videos and narratives addressed to a global audience are a creative challenge we enjoy.

Be part of this new wave of participatory fundraising! Add your own project to a competition or help us win one we have entered - thanks so much from Wendy and Green Map System!