Innovative Program Grant

The Innovative Program Grants are administered by the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN), an organization dedicated to increasing the proportion of Michigan residents who hold postsecondary credentials. MCAN supports the state's "Sixty by 30" goal, which aims to raise the percentage of residents with a degree or certificate to 60 percent by the year 2030. These grants encourage creative, community-based interventions that support college readiness, enrollment, and completion. The program offers up to $10,000 in funding per project, focusing on innovative strategies that address educational access and equity. To be eligible, applicants must provide a 50 percent funding match, with at least half of that match in cash and the remainder allowable as in-kind contributions. This structure is designed to ensure shared investment in the success and sustainability of the funded initiatives. MCAN staff are available to assist grantees in developing sustainability plans, although the funding is not intended to support long-term or recurring program operations. Applications are accepted quarterly during four 45-day windows throughout the year: September 1 to October 15, December 1 to January 15, March 1 to April 15, and June 1 to July 15. Each application cycle is followed by a 30-day review period, with funding decisions announced promptly. Successful applicants must begin implementation within 12 months of receiving the award, and no-cost extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis. MCAN gives preference to proposals tied to Local College Access Networks (LCANs), particularly those that adopt a community-wide approach involving action teams, schools, and other stakeholders. However, the grant is open to all qualified organizations and is not intended to fund LCAN formation or development. Proposals are evaluated by a cross-departmental team at MCAN, with award decisions based on alignment with goals, innovation, and fund availability. Applications must be submitted through MCAN's SurveyMonkey Apply system. For assistance, applicants can contact Dominique Devereaux, Director of Community Mobilization Strategy, or Bob Ewigleben, Program Manager, both reachable via email and phone. Additional resources such as an info sheet and sample application documents are provided to aid applicants in preparing their submissions. The grant also requires matching fund verification, a program timeline, and a completed budget narrative, and offers bonus points for partner commitment letters and LCAN endorsements.

Preference is given to applicants affiliated with LCANs; submission requires verification of matching funds and timeline planning.