MEEMIC Grants

Eligible Applicants

Employees of any Michigan school, whether public, parochial or private, may apply for a MEEMIC Foundation grant. Educators may submit one application in each funding period, but teachers from the same school may apply with different proposals. The MEEMIC Foundation funds those proposals that "show creativity on the part of the educator and the program." Each proposal is considered individually, but those focusing on the science, the arts, technology, literacy or mentoring receive priority for funding. The MEEMIC Foundation does not fund proposals merely for school equipment or supplies.

As of the 2011 grant cycle, the maximum award for a proposal is $2,500. Grant funding cannot exceed total projects costs. All grant funding is contingent upon the MEEMIC foundation's yearly budget. Applicants will receive consideration during the two award cycles, in the fall and winter semester of the academic year. Only certain proposals receive grants each cycle. Those chosen for funding will be contacted by mail or telephone. Applicants not chosen for funding receive a letter regarding the decision.

A selection committee of the MEEMIC Foundation evaluates all proposals. Funding criteria includes the number of students participating in the proposed project; the potential for a project's lasting impact; relation to curriculum and classroom instruction; future replication of the project; and costs. All funded projects must include classroom learning, along with creativity and addressing students' needs and interest. The MEEMIC Foundation grants any amount of the proposal, including, but not necessarily, the total cost.

Past projects receiving grants from the MEEMIC Foundation include textbooks for specific proposals; the Grand Rapid Spelling Bee; museum trips; outdoor environmental projects; video presentations; Saturday educational programs; Math Night events; science education for students at-risk; choral music events; and audio texts for those with reading disabilities. Proposals must specify a specific age group for the project, although certain proposals may be used for the entire student population in a particular elementary, middle or high school.