Civic Engagement Microgrant Program

The Civic Engagement Microgrant Program provides awards of up to $4,000 to STEM groups led by master's, PhD, postdoc, or professional students to design and execute projects that create dialogue with public officials, local community leaders, and the public around issues of common concern. The program operates on a rolling basis and aims to help early-career researchers develop skills in communication, program planning, and understanding of public policy while making an impact in their local communities. Grants are available in three categories: Startup Funding (up to $4,000 for new groups), Design Your Own Community Event (up to $2,000 for in-person, virtual, or hybrid events), and Digital Media (up to $2,000 for creating podcasts, videos, infographics, and other digital deliverables). The program supports interdisciplinary collaborations across STEM fields and encourages projects under four themes: Collaborations, Civic Science at Scale, Recognizing Lived Experience, and Neuroscience. Micrograntees gain access to networking sessions and webinar trainings on program management, event planning, communications, and public engagement.