SmartWay Trans'port Partnership SmartWay Affiliate Challenge Frequently Asked Questions What is the SmartWay Affiliate Challenge? The challenge is an opportunity for EPA to recognize SmartWay Affiliates who reach beyond the minimum commitments outlined on the Affiliate Agreement, with significant promotional, marketing, and recruiting activities. How do I submit a nomination for the SmartWay Affiliate Challenge? EPA is accepting nominations for the Affiliate Challenge through September 12, 2007. (must be postmarked by Sept 12, 2007). Nomination package may be sent to: Via US Postal Service or Overnight Delivery Service: Patrice Thornton US EPA SmartWay Affiliate Challenge 2565 Plymouth Road Ann Arbor, Ml 48105 (734) 214-4329 Package can also be e-mailed: < mailto: thornton.patrice@epa.gov > Receipt of nomination package will occur via e-mail. Who can nominate my organization? Affiliate Partners may nominate themselves How do I nominate my organization? Simply complete the Affiliate Challenge nomination form by checking off the marketing activities achieved between July 1, 2006 and August 31, 2007. Supporting documentation such as pictures, copies of articles, etc. must be included in the package. What are the criteria for the Challenge? The criterion is creative and effective promotion of SmartWay. Activities demonstrating creativity, innovation, and reach to large audiences will have more weight in the evaluation process. What types of activities will be recognized? Nominees identify activities they have accomplished since joining the Partnership, as indicated on their signed Affiliate Agreement. In essence, nominees pursue marketing and promotional activities that support the SmartWay program. There are two different award levels: Silver Level which consists of routine, less time intensive activities and Gold Level which consist of the more complex, resource intensive activities. A complete list of options is found on the Challenge nomination form. What time period does the Affiliate Challenge cover? The Challenge covers activities completed from July 1, 2006 through August 31, 2007. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency • Office of Transportation & Air Quality • (734) 214-4052 fax • www.epa.gov/smartway ------- Will there be opportunities for more than one organization to be recognized? Yes, there may be multiple winners in both the Silver Level category as well as the Gold Level category. Is my organization eligible for the SmartWay Excellence Award if it receives a Challenge Award? Yes, nominees who complete all of the gold level activities are eligible for a SmartWay Excellence Award. When and how will nominees be notified of EPA's SmartWay Challenge decision? EPA will contact all nominees via e-mail and by letter regarding award decisions by September 28, 2007. What will the recognition consist of? Awardees will be recognized on the SmartWay website, and in a SmartWay press release. In addition, gold awards will be presented at the awardees membership meeting. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency • Office of Transportation & Air Quality • (734) 214-4052 fax • www.epa.gov/smartway ------- |