On the Table Philly, the local version of a national, multi-partner discussion series, is happening for its second year on Thursday, Nov. 8.

The event aims to get citizens talking with each other about proposed fixes to community problems over a meal. It originated in Chicago in 2014, and Knight Foundation put up $1.15 million to bring the program to 10 other cities where it invests, including Philly, where The Philadelphia Foundation helped organize the May 2017 pilot. About 300 tables hosted roughly 2,000 participants.

This year, attendees might get something more from the experience than (hopefully) an in-depth discussion with neighbors and colleagues: The Philadelphia Foundation is offering $50,000 in micro-grants, called Activate grants, of up to $1,000 each to support ideas inspired by On the Table discussions.

Proposed ideas must focus on ways to “make the region a better place to live, work and play.”

“We heard from hosts and participants that last year’s inaugural On the Table Philly conversations energized their thinking around important community issues,” said Philadelphia Foundation President and CEO Pedro Ramos. “This year, we’re going one step further by moving these conversations to action. Activate mini grants will enable On the Table Philly participants to spark positive change in their communities.”

Grantees must be registered On the Table hosts or participants, and can be either individuals or organizations. Philadelphia LISC will process grant applications and oversee a panel of judges who will determine how the grants will be administered.

More information about the grants will be available at host orientation sessions on Oct. 31. Apps will open on Nov. 8.