Mini Grant

Timeline

These grants operate as a rolling open application and will remain open until funding is exhausted.

Current Cycle

$15,000 available, to be utilized within the current academic year ending June 30, 2026.

February 1, 2026: Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle will open

Upcoming Cycle

July 1, 2026: Applications for the 2026–2027 cycle will open

Award Details

We have a total funding pool of $15,000 available for this cycle. To ensure we can support a diverse range of projects across campus, we utilize the following funding structure:

Standard Awards ($500 – $2,000)

We encourage most proposals to stay within this range to help us maximize the number of unique projects funded.

Exceptional Impact Awards (Up to $5,000)

A limited number of grants will be considered for projects that provide significant, justifiable support to students with the greatest needs or those addressing systemic barriers to success.

The "Scale" Option

In the application, you will be asked if a "scaled-down" version of your project is feasible, should the Foundation be unable to provide full funding

Eligibility & Guidelines

Who Can Apply

All SCC faculty, staff, and management are eligible to submit a proposal.

Area Dean/VP Endorsement

All applications must be reviewed and endorsed by the area Dean or Vice President. This ensures the project aligns with department goals and verifies that other funding sources (e.g., SEAP, Strong Workforce) are not already available or more appropriate.

Area Prioritization

Because funds are limited and awarded on a rolling basis, we ask that Deans and VPs help prioritize projects within their areas that offer the most immediate and meaningful impact for students.

Repeat Applications

Past recipients are eligible to apply; however, priority is given to new projects that have not yet received mini-grant funding. These grants are intended for one-time or "seed" initiatives; as such, funding is not guaranteed for recurring projects, and departments should not rely on this as an ongoing budget source.

Expenditure Rules

All projects must adhere to LRCCD purchasing guidelines. For the current cycle, funds must be utilized by June 30, 2026. Please note that funds cannot be used for ongoing program support, staff compensation, or student clubs.

Meaningful Impact: Where Could Your Idea Lead?

We welcome proposals that remove barriers to student success. To ensure your project aligns with our campus goals, please consider how your idea supports these Success Pillars:

Academic Excellence & Engagement

Sparking a love for learning through academic competitions, research opportunities, or bringing industry experts and guest speakers directly to our students.

Closing the Equity Gap

Projects designed to support our disproportionately impacted (DI) students, fostering a sense of belonging and providing culturally responsive resources.

Career & Transfer Readiness

Bridging the gap between the classroom and the future, including student travel to professional conferences, hands-on research, or initiatives that directly contribute to employability and transfer success.

Persistence & Momentum

Creative incentives or interventions that help students stay in school, navigate educational hurdles, and reach their goal of graduation or transfer.

How Grants Are Awarded

Applications are reviewed and prioritized by the Regional Director of Philanthropy and SCC Leadership based on:

Student-Centric Impact

Direct, clear benefit to the student experience or learning environment.

Equity Lens

Alignment with SCC’s mission to close equity gaps and support our diverse student body.

Culture of Philanthropy

Our grants are donor-funded. All things being equal, preference is given to applicants or departments with demonstrated engagement with the Foundation (e.g., employee giving, eTeams campaigns, participation in Celebrate City, or donor stewardship activities).

Propose a Mini Grant Project

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