MiSTEM Playbook Mini Grant

The MiSTEM Playbook Mini Grant is administered through the MiSTEM Network, a statewide initiative in Michigan dedicated to transforming science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education through equitable, real-world learning experiences. Supported by the Michigan Department of Education and General Motors Corporate Citizenship, and administered by Michigan State University and Beyond Consulting, the program seeks to address declining student engagement in STEM by making learning more relevant and connected to real-world applications. The initiative is grounded in a broader statewide vision to create a culture of STEM that prepares students to become innovators and contributors within their communities. The primary purpose of this grant is to expand the implementation of 3P learning, which includes project-based, problem-based, and place-based educational approaches. These methodologies are designed to deepen student engagement by connecting classroom instruction to authentic challenges, community contexts, and collaborative inquiry. The grant supports projects that foster critical thinking, persistence, and the development of transferable skills, while also strengthening connections between schools and their surrounding communities. The overall goal is to ensure that all students in Michigan have access to high-quality STEM experiences that are meaningful and future-oriented. Funding for this opportunity totals up to 800000 dollars in aggregate, with individual awards of up to 50000 dollars per grantee. The funds are intended to support the design and implementation of innovative STEM programming aligned with 3P learning principles. Allowable uses include program development, instructional design, professional learning, and collaboration with community partners. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate sustainability plans to ensure that funded initiatives continue beyond the grant period. The performance period for funded projects runs from February 2026 through December 31, 2027. Eligibility for the grant includes Michigan-based intermediate school districts, regional educational service agencies, local education agencies, and MiSTEM fiscal agencies. Tribal entities and tribal community organizations are also eligible to apply, provided they partner with an eligible fiduciary organization. Applications must be approved by both the applicant organization’s authorized representative and the relevant MiSTEM Regional Director. Notably, MiSTEM Regional Directors are not permitted to serve as lead applicants or authorized representatives, ensuring impartiality in the review process. The application process requires applicants to prepare and submit a full proposal through the designated application system. Applicants are encouraged to build a collaborative team, secure leadership approvals, develop a detailed budget using the provided template, and draft their proposal in advance, as the application must be completed in a single session. Supporting materials such as a rubric, budget template, and application preview are provided to guide applicants. While technical assistance webinars are offered, participation in these sessions is not required for submission. Applications for this grant cycle opened in November 2025, with a final submission deadline of January 9, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Award notifications are scheduled for February 6, 2026, followed by a grant kickoff workshop and ongoing professional learning opportunities related to 3P pedagogy. The grant does not explicitly state that it recurs annually, though the structured timeline and program design suggest the potential for future cycles. Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the administrative contact provided, with email support available for technical or administrative inquiries.

Focus on strong sustainability planning and clear alignment to 3P learning principles; demonstrate community connection and real world application