NCAN Member Grants

The Supporting Justice Impacted College Students cohort application is administered by the National College Attainment Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving postsecondary access and success for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. With funding support from Ascendium Education Group, this initiative represents the second round of grants under NCAN’s Justice Fellows project. The program was developed in response to the reinstatement of Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated learners in 2023, which has significantly increased opportunities for individuals in prison education programs to pursue higher education. NCAN’s broader mission and network position it as a central coordinator for organizations seeking to improve college attainment outcomes nationwide. The primary purpose of this grant opportunity is to build the capacity of organizations to better support justice-impacted learners, including those currently incarcerated and those transitioning back into their communities. The program targets organizations that are new to the prison education field and aims to equip them with the tools, partnerships, and knowledge needed to provide effective college access and success services. Through structured support, the initiative seeks to address systemic barriers faced by justice-impacted students, including navigating financial aid systems, accessing postsecondary programs, and maintaining academic progress post-release. Selected participants will receive a two-year grant totaling $20,000, intended specifically to support staff time dedicated to this initiative. In addition to financial support, the program provides extensive technical assistance and professional development opportunities. During the first year, grantees participate in monthly virtual community of practice sessions focused on planning, training, and understanding the landscape of prison education. In the second year, the emphasis shifts toward program implementation and capacity building, continuing with monthly collaborative sessions to support sustained development. The grant also includes opportunities for professional engagement through NCAN-hosted events such as the National Conference and Leadership Summit. These events allow participants to network with peers, share best practices, and present their work to a broader audience. This combination of funding, training, and networking is designed to create long-term institutional capacity rather than short-term programmatic outcomes, ensuring that participating organizations can continue to support justice-impacted students beyond the grant period. Eligibility for the program is limited to NCAN members, specifically state higher education agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on college access and success. Applicants must demonstrate organizational commitment to the initiative by submitting a required letter of support from a senior leader within the organization. This letter must identify the individual responsible for leading the project and explain their qualifications. The program prioritizes organizations that are new to working in prison education and are seeking to establish or expand their capacity in this area. Applications are open and are due on May 8, 2026. The selection process is competitive, with NCAN planning to select up to ten organizations for participation in this cohort. While specific evaluation criteria are not detailed, the emphasis on organizational readiness, leadership commitment, and alignment with program goals suggests that applications are assessed based on capacity, intent, and potential for impact. No specific award notification timeline or contact information is provided in the available materials.

Demonstrate strong organizational commitment and clearly justify the selected project lead’s qualifications and role in advancing justice-impacted student support