The R Prize: Early Momentum and the Road Ahead

Two weeks ago, I introduced an idea: **[The R Prize](https://willmelton.com/the-r-prize-richmonds-challenge-to-become-the-most-ai-literate-city-in-the-world/)**, a challenge to make Richmond the most AI-literate city in the world. It was a bold vision, rooted in the belief that AI can be a force for good—if we choose to wield it with purpose, creativity, and community at the center.

Since sharing the proposal, the response has been incredible.

The **AI Ready RVA Board**—the organization I proposed as the facilitator of the challenge—is enthusiastic. We’re scheduled to vote on whether to move forward on **April 17**. If approved, we’ll immediately begin laying the groundwork to execute the initiative within **six months**.

Yes, six months. It’s an aggressive timeline, but I believe in moving with urgency when the moment calls for it. AI isn’t slowing down, and neither should we. If we can build early momentum—especially through fundraising and community engagement—there’s nothing stopping us from making this real.

### Who’s Already On Board?

I’ve had energizing conversations with leaders across the region:

- **Floyd Miller** of the **Metropolitan Business League** quickly offered his support and has been actively connecting us with others. - He introduced me to **Heather Lyne** at the **1717 Collective**, who responded with, “Where do I sign?” She’s eager to collaborate and help make it happen. - And just last night, I hosted a happy hour where I shared the vision in more detail. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. People are ready to roll up their sleeves.

That’s how I know Richmond is ready for this.

### What Happens Next?

If approved by the board, we’ll enter a six-month sprint to bring The R Prize to life. The challenge will include:

- **Three major public events**: a kickoff, a mid-point showcase, and a final pitch day. - **Hundreds of teams** working to solve real-world problems using AI. - **A $100,000 first-place prize**, with additional awards and recognition. - A shared learning journey that elevates AI literacy across the city and puts Richmond on the global stage.

We’ll need to assemble a **committee**, recruit **coaches and judges**, hold **virtual orientations**, build a structure, secure **venues and sponsors**, and sell tickets (likely one pass for all events to encourage full participation).

This challenge is about building together—and building quickly.

### How You Can Help

To kick things off, we’ll need early support from **high-net-worth donors and corporate sponsors**—particularly those interested in **leaving a legacy**. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to put Richmond on the world stage.

We’re also seeking people who can contribute their time, expertise, or resources in the following roles:

- Committee Members - Judges - Coaches or Mentors - Scholarship Sponsors - General Donors - Event Volunteers - Strategic Partners

If you’re interested—or even just curious—please take a moment to fill out our [support interest form](https://aireadyrva.com/support-the-r-prize/) and let us know how you’d like to get involved.

### A Vision Worth Building

The R Prize isn’t just about AI. It’s about people. It’s about giving our community the tools and confidence to use new technology to tackle problems that matter. It’s about showing the world what’s possible when innovation is paired with collaboration.

This is how we lead—with vision, with urgency, and with each other.

Let’s build it.

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