TCDL Resources
Find info session recordings, answers to common questions and more support for developing your TCDL design proposal.
TCDL info sessions
Info session 2 (Jan 30, 2024)
Info Session 1 (Nov 09, 2023)
Project resources
Use this template to help you prepare your TCDL project submission and structure your pitch deck presentation. In outlining the elements that you should include in your proposal, it serves as guidance for ensuring that your project presentation is concise, well considered, and comprehensive. (Please note that this is not an official, standardized template; you may add a few extra slides if you have additional important information to convey.)
Common questions
Here are some things that will help you better prepare for your application, based on what we’ve heard from you.
Can I submit more than one proposal?
No. Only one proposal per person.
How many projects do you expect will move from the first stage to 12-month development?
We expect approximately 15–25 semifinalists.
Can I apply as part of a team?
Yes. Please note that the core team should be composed primarily of RISD students and alumni.
Can faculty help and/or advise on projects?
Yes, you can seek advice from faculty. RISD will also facilitate mentorships for semifinalists in spring 2024. If you’re a faculty member interested in mentoring, get in touch with us at partnerships@risd.edu.
Are there requirements for writing the proposed budget?
We do not have specific requirements but do encourage you to review budget resources for 12-month development and implementation plans. For helpful advice as you get started, take a look at the Career Center’s guidance for starting a business.
Are there any restrictions on how we can use the award money?
You should use your award funds to develop and execute your Terra Carta Design Lab proposal. You may use them for consultant onboarding, material costs and research, prototyping, user testing and other supporting materials. You can include a stipend for yourself as part of your budget.
Judges will evaluate whether you have a credible plan for developing and delivering your proposal and in what timeframe. Therefore, your production and/or implementation plans are crucial to a successful application.
What does the proposal need to include?
In developing your proposal, we encourage you to review the application criteria, judging criteria and the Terra Carta mandate.
Do projects need to be product-based? Can they be systems-based?
We encourage you to think about ideas and concepts that explore not just product design but also inquiries into public engagement, built environment, systems and service design.
Does the work need to be site-specific or local to where we are based? Or can it be scalable/global in scope?
You are not required for your design to be local to Rhode Island or New England. You may consider place-based projects or ones that are not site-specific.
What does scalability mean in the context of TCDL?
In the context of TCDL, scalability is a key parameter in considering the growth production scale of your design solution. You may also consider it when thinking about scaling from a locally tested idea to a globally applicable idea.