Innovative Program Grant

The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) offers the Innovative Program Grants to support initiatives that enhance college readiness, enrollment, and completion across Michigan. MCAN is committed to increasing the proportion of Michigan residents with postsecondary degrees or credentials to 60 percent by 2030—a goal known as Sixty by 30. The organization emphasizes support for low-income students, first-generation college-going students, and students of color. These grants are intended to incentivize programs that creatively address Michigan's pressing need for alignment and innovation across K-12 education, higher education, and workforce development sectors.

The Innovative Program Grants specifically fund projects aligned with three core focus areas: promoting K-12 success and college readiness, improving college retention and completion, and fostering employer engagement and alignment with educational institutions. Funding is intended for short-term program support rather than long-term or renewable funding. Each grant may award up to $10,000 and requires a 50 percent match, which must include at least 50 percent cash contributions. For example, a $10,000 grant request would necessitate $5,000 in matching funds, of which no more than $2,500 may be in-kind contributions.

Grant proposals must be submitted through MCAN’s SurveyMonkey Apply online grants system. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the fiscal year, which starts on October 1. However, no awards are issued during the month of September. Proposals submitted during this time are considered for funding beginning October 1. Funded programs are expected to be implemented within 12 months of the award date. MCAN staff may consider no-cost extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants affiliated with a Local College Access Network (LCAN) will receive preference, reflecting MCAN's strategy of promoting community-based, comprehensive approaches to boosting postsecondary attainment. Those who are not yet connected to an LCAN are encouraged to contact MCAN’s Director of Community Mobilization Strategy, Dominique Devereaux, for assistance. Importantly, this grant is not designed to fund LCAN development efforts, which are supported by separate MCAN programs.

The MCAN team is committed to providing detailed feedback on all proposals and aims to notify applicants of award decisions within 90 days of submission. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact MCAN with eligibility questions or for technical support during the application process. For assistance, Dominique Devereaux is the primary point of contact.