I don't know how many game designers read GB.  I guess this isn't really a game DESIGNER'S site so much as a game consumer one, although there's overlap.  This is interesting anyway:

There is a contest in which 1-5 people aged 18 to 28 years old could win $10,000 dollars for a creative game concept which addresses the problem of the skyrocketing national debt in the U.S.

Take it as it's given, I don't know anything about this contest other than what's on this website.  I'm not qualified to participate anyway, I just thought I'd pass it along to any budding or current game developers out there :)

Text lifted from the contest website (click on this link for full information):

What Is It?

Get rid of your debt by taking the Indebted Digital Challenge. Come up with a creative, original idea for a video game that addresses the nation’s fiscal crisis and you or your team could receive $10,000 if your concept is chosen as the winner. You will also be credited in the final game and may have the opportunity to work with mtvU to make your idea a reality.

Who Can Participate?

Applicants must be 18-28 years old and can participate individually or in teams of up to five people

When Is It Due?

Applications due: January 7, 2009
Winner chosen: January 23, 2009

What Do I Need to Know?

To contend for the winning spot, your idea must:

• Raise awareness about the dangers of spending too much and saving too little, and the urgent need for citizens and government to make responsible choices about their finances.
• Address the potential future ramifications of inaction.
• Identify ways to combat the nation’s looming fiscal crisis through citizen advocacy and combat personal financial risk through debt management at home.
• Compel users to learn more about debt-related issues and take action after game play on this website; game ideas are not required to tackle every element of the U.S. budget and financial challenge within game play.
• Be interactive and able to live and be spread online.
• Keep the following in consideration:
  • Be hopeful and empowering
  • Entertain and engage the audience
  • Ensure game play is easy to follow
  • Be unique and not afraid to push the envelope
  • Remain relevant to the college audience