Grants
The following grant opportunities are available to the University community for programs and initiatives related to civic engagement.
Center for Civic Engagement Grants
Registered Student Organization Grant Program
The Registered Student Organization Grant Program, in partnership with the Dean of Students Office, is intended to support Registered Student Organization programs that encourage civic engagement on Illinois State University's campus and within the Bloomington/Normal community.
Faculty/Instructor Community Engagement Learning Grant Program
The Faculty/Instructor Community Engagement Learning Grant Program is intended to support incorporating the principles and goals of Illinois State's core value of civic engagement into students' curricular experiences. The grants are intended to reimburse faculty for expenses directly associated with course-based events, activities, or projects that develop students' civic and community knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors and prepare them to participate in social change. Grants support community engagement projects such as service learning assignments, guest speakers, travel expenses for class trips, material for in-class activities/assignments, etc.
Applications are open for this fiscal year (FY25).
Civic Engagement Grant Awards
Civic Engagement Grant Awards, co-sponsored by CCE, Senior Professionals, and the State Farm Foundation, are available for Illinois State University student organizations or individuals participating in an in-course project that is aimed at improving or educating within the Bloomington-Normal community. See the PDF below for the full award criteria. Applications and more information can be found at the Senior Professionals website.
Center for Civic Engagement Scholarships
The Nikita D. Richards Perseverance & Civic Engagement Scholarship
The Nikita D. Richards Perseverance & Civic Engagement Scholarship was established by Nikita to help assist students who, like her, experienced socioeconomic challenges, and who are utilizing their time at ISU to fulfill their purpose in life. She has committed her life to being civically engaged at the local, state and national level and encourages all Redbirds to get involved and make a difference on our campus and in our community. Requirements and other information are available at Scholarship Finder.
The Dr. Aja C. Holmes Alternative Breaks Fund
As a former Alternative Breaks participant, Dr. Aja C. Holmes understands the positive and lifelong impact this program can have on ISU students. Her fund is designed to offer partial fee waivers to offset Alternative Breaks trip costs for students who want to participate but cannot afford to without financial assistance. Requirements and other information are available at Scholarship Finder.
To check out all the Center for Civic Engagement Funds and make a gift, visit the ISU Giving webpage.
Other Illinois State University Grants
Student Sustainability Fund
The Student Sustainability Fund offers grants for creative student, faculty, or staff projects that contribute to the University's commitment to creating a more sustainable campus and community. This fund helps students travel to conferences and plan campus projects like solar picnic tables and new bicycle racks. This program is administered entirely by the Student Sustainability Committee. Visit their website for more information.
Teaching Innovation Grants
Teaching Innovations grants support the development of innovative pedagogical approaches and resources for courses, programs, or other curriculum components at Illinois State University. These grants are awarded by the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology.Visit their website for more information.