ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD

Can I choose to stay somewhere else, like with family instead of at the hotel? 

• No, we require everyone to stay at the hotel for the entire Ambition Accelerator Summit. 

I have family in the Irvine or Los Angeles area, can they join us for any activities? 

• Unfortunately, no. The Ambition Accelerator Summit is a closed event. No additional guests will be allowed to join us. 

Are we required to participate in all activities? 

• Yes, you are required to participate in all activities. We have built a jam-packed few days with lots of fun, engaging components to help you connect with other changemakers, grow your initiatives, and learn more about the work the Taco Bell Foundation and Ashoka are doing in the world. We can't wait to spend 2 full days with you! 

What should I do if I get separated from the group? 

• If for any reason you get separated from the team, text (571) 622-1066, and a team member will meet you and bring you back to the group.  

Can we choose to go back to our rooms instead of staying in the hangout room after the main activities? 

• Yes, spending time in the hangout room is completely optional. It is there for you to hang out and get to know other participants, but it is not required for you to spend time there.   

I have some specific dietary restrictions. Can you accommodate?  

• We have made accommodations to cater to everyone's dietary needs as long as those needs were communicated during registration. If what is provided does not cater to your dietary restrictions or needs, please contact an Ambition Accelerator Team member for further assistance. 

CLOTHING

Is there a dress code for the Summit? What should I pack? 

• You will need both casual and "business casual" clothing for the weekend. It will be very warm in Irvine, California during the month of August, where the daytime temperature averages about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Here are some guidelines:  

• We ask that you do not wear clothes with controversial themes, explicit language, or advertising for alcohol or tobacco products. We also ask that you dress respectfully for the occasion. When unsure, please err on the conservative side and avoid wearing exposing clothing. 
• Business casual means clothing that is appropriate for the workplace such as pants or khakis, dress shirt, blouse, skirt, or a dress (no jeans, shorts, short skirts, and short dresses).
• Above all, bring comfortable walking shoes!

TRAVEL

Do you cover my transport from my house to/from the airport or train station? 

• No, we do not. We only cover all transportation and expenses upon arrival in Irvine and while at the Summit. We ask that you coordinate a ride to and from your home to the airport or train station. 

• If you need financial assistance to get to and from the airport or train station from your home, please reach out to our team at ambition@ashoka.org. 

I know you are only paying for one young person and, if applicable, one chaperone. Could someone else join if we paid? 

• Unfortunately, no. The Ambition Accelerator Summit is a closed event. No additional guests will be allowed to join us. 

How do I get my baggage fee covered? 

• We do not cover baggage fees for attendees. We ask that you bring everything you need as a carry-on item. 

How heavy can my carry-on luggage be?  

• There is no weight restriction for most domestic airlines. However, the dimensions of your carry-on, including wheels and handles, must not exceed 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (23 x 36 x 56 cm), and your personal item should measure at 8 x 14 x 18 inches (20 x 35 x 45 cm). Your carry-on must fit in the overhead bins, and your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. 

HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS 

What are the health and safety protocols for the Summit? 

Your safety is our number one priority. Following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), The State of California and Taco Bell health protocols, we have implemented the following protocols to promote a healthy and safe experience: 

• COVID-19 testing prior to departure is welcomed, but not required. 

• If you test positive for COVID-19 or feel unwell at any point during the summit, please do not attend and notify the on-site medical provider immediately.  

• If you have been exposed to an individual with COVID-19 within the 10 days prior to the summit, you must wear a mask for 10 days from your last exposure to that individual. 

• COVID-19 vaccines are highly encouraged, but not required.  

• Masks are welcomed, but not required (except as noted above when exposed to a person with COVID-19). 

• Attendees must adhere to government issued travel restrictions and guidance issued by the region you will be travelling to and the region you are traveling from. 

Due to the fast-evolving nature of COVID-19 recommended best practices, an updated safety protocol document will be shared prior to the summit. We are doing our best to create a positive experience for everyone involved and we appreciate your patience as we navigate the evolving nature of the pandemic. 

What happens if I get injured or sick?  

• If you have a non-emergency medical issue, please contact Ambition Accelerator Summit staff by texting (571) 622-1066 as soon as possible. In case of an emergency, begin by calling 911. 

MEDIA   

Will I be required to speak with the media? 

• No, media engagement is at will and you do not have to participate if you are not comfortable. If you do choose to speak with the media, you are also not obligated to answer any questions you are not comfortable with.  

SECURITY

How will the Ashoka and Taco Bell Teams ensure my safety? 

• We have put in place people and systems to ensure we are aware of the whereabouts of all participants at all times. If for any reason you feel unsafe or a threat presents itself, reach out to Melissa Obami at (703) 474-7711 or any member of the Ashoka or Taco Bell team, and we will take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.  

U.S. PARTICIPATION AND AWARDS

How much funding will I receive?

1. All 50 Summit Semi-Finalists from the United States will receive $1,000 each and be invited to participate in the U.S. Ambition Accelerator Summit in Irvine, CA.

2. 5 Ambition Accelerator Finalists will be selected to join a pitch-off at the Ambition Accelerator Summit at Taco Bell's headquarters.

3. From those 5 invited to pitch, one young person will be selected as the Ambition Accelerator Grand Prize Winner, and receive a total prize of $25,000. The 4 other Finalists will receive an additional $5,000 award each.

 I am one of the Pitch Finalists. How can I prepare for my pitch?

• Congrats! You will be pitching for four minutes on a main stage at the event along with 10 minutes of questions from a panel of leaders from Taco Bell, Ashoka, the Taco Bell Foundation and young changemakers.

• We are here to support you in drafting and practicing your pitch! Here is a look at support you will receive:

1. Overview call to explain the opportunity and answer your questions.

2. 2-3 prep sessions to draft, practice and refine your pitch as well as practice Q&A questions.

3. Individualized support at the Summit.

• The Ambition Accelerator Team will reach out to you in mid-July with these next steps. For the meantime, get excited for the Summit!

How long after the Summit will I receive my funding?  

• Funding will be received in about 1-2 months after the event and after you have completed the necessary paperwork. More information will be provided during the Summit. 

Are there requirements for how I use the money?

• It is our expectation that you will use all of the money in service of your project. We will provide workshops during the Summit to support you in determining how you might like to spend the money!

 More questions? 

Reach out to our team by emailing ambition@ashoka.org or texting (571) 622-1066.

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