Innovative Program Grant

The Innovative Program Grant is offered by Michigan College Access Network, a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing postsecondary attainment across Michigan. MCAN works toward the Sixty by 30 goal, which aims to ensure that 60 percent of Michigan residents hold a postsecondary certificate or degree by the year 2030. This grant program reflects MCAN’s broader mission to support local initiatives that expand access to higher education and improve outcomes for students and families throughout the state. The program emphasizes collaboration with local stakeholders and encourages innovation in addressing barriers to college readiness, enrollment, and completion. The purpose of the Innovative Program Grant is to fund new ideas and initiatives that enhance postsecondary attainment rates within Michigan communities. The grant supports programs that focus on college readiness, enrollment, and completion, particularly those that introduce creative interventions or leverage partnerships and additional funding sources. MCAN seeks proposals that demonstrate innovation and the potential for meaningful impact, especially those that align with existing community efforts and contribute to systemic improvements in college access. Funding for the Innovative Program Grant is provided in amounts of up to ten thousand dollars per award. The program requires a fifty percent matching contribution from applicants, with at least half of the match provided in cash and the remainder eligible as in kind support. For example, a ten thousand dollar request requires a minimum of five thousand dollars in matching funds, including at least two thousand five hundred dollars in cash. These grants are intended as short term investments and are not designed to provide ongoing or renewable funding. However, MCAN staff may assist grantees in developing sustainability plans to continue successful programs beyond the grant period. Eligibility for the program is broad and includes organizations and programs operating within Michigan that are working to improve college access outcomes. Preference is given to applicants connected to a Local College Access Network, as these networks represent a coordinated, community wide approach to increasing postsecondary attainment. Eligible applicants may include schools, nonprofits, and other community based organizations. The funding does not support the development of Local College Access Networks themselves, as separate grant opportunities exist for that purpose. Applications must be submitted through MCAN’s online grant management system, SurveyMonkey Apply. Applicants may review a sample of the application components in advance, but submissions are only accepted through the online portal. The application process includes completion of required forms and submission of proposal details outlining the program design, goals, and anticipated outcomes. MCAN encourages potential applicants to contact staff for guidance on eligibility or technical assistance during the application process. The grant operates on a quarterly application cycle with defined submission windows throughout the year. These windows occur from September 1 to October 15, December 1 to January 15, March 1 to April 15, and June 1 to July 15. Applications are reviewed during the thirty day period following each deadline, and applicants are typically notified of funding decisions within that timeframe. Proposed programs should be designed for implementation within twelve months of the award date, although no cost extensions may be considered upon request. Applications are reviewed by a cross departmental team of MCAN staff, and final funding decisions are based on both proposal quality and available resources. Applicants may request follow up discussions regarding award decisions if desired. For assistance or additional information, applicants can contact Bob Ewigleben, Director of Community Mobilization, via email or phone. This support structure ensures that applicants have access to guidance throughout the process and can develop competitive proposals aligned with MCAN’s strategic goals.

Align proposal with Local College Access Network efforts and emphasize innovative approaches that improve postsecondary attainment