Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) Grant Program

The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) continues its mission to promote the growth of the graphic communications industry through direct support to educators and institutions. In its sixth consecutive year, the PGSF Grant Program provides targeted funding to schools, colleges, and universities engaged in graphic communications and related disciplines. The program is designed to enhance educational outcomes by funding equipment purchases, student travel, and instructor development directly tied to advancing student experience and curriculum in the print and graphics sector. The Spring 2026 grant cycle is currently open, with applications accepted until April 17, 2026. This cycle focuses on providing funds for a range of educational enhancements, including the acquisition of industry-relevant equipment, support for student travel to national conferences and expos, and continuing education for instructors. All grant requests must be grounded in enhancing student exposure to print, packaging, and graphic communications fields. Each submission will be evaluated based on merit, alignment with program goals, and availability of funds. Notification of awards is expected by May 2026. Funding is available to a broad range of academic institutions involved in graphic communication education. Eligible applicants include high schools, vocational and trade schools, two-year community colleges, four-year universities, and graduate programs offering Masters and Doctorate degrees. Multiple applications from the same institution are permitted, allowing departments or divisions within the same institution to apply separately for different purposes. Funding amounts vary depending on the request type. Equipment grants may be awarded up to $7,500, with applications requiring at least two vendor quotes. These grants are intended to supplement or expand existing programs, and examples of eligible equipment include small presses, embroidery equipment, bindery tools, or computer software. For student travel, grants provide up to $600 per student, capped at five students per school event, to attend recognized industry conferences such as Printing United Expo, Skills USA, TAGA, Adobe MAX, and others. Instructor continuing education is also supported with up to $2,500 per applicant, contingent on the relevance of the course or seminar to the school’s graphic communication curriculum. Applications are evaluated by a committee in accordance with the PGSF bylaws. Selection criteria include alignment with the program's educational goals, demonstrated impact on curriculum or student outcomes, and overall quality of the submission. While the foundation anticipates future application rounds—another opportunity will open in Fall 2026—each cycle is reviewed independently, and awards are contingent on available funding. Founded to advance graphic communications education, PGSF awarded over $100,000 to 29 institutions and educators in the 2024–2025 cycle. Past awards supported equipment upgrades and student attendance at competitive and educational industry events. As part of its continued commitment to education, PGSF encourages early submissions and detailed, well-supported proposals that reflect meaningful integration into the applicant’s educational programming.

Proposals should clearly show impact on student experience and curriculum relevance.