New and Restarting Student Sections (NRS) Microgrant

The Student Sections Committee (SSC) is excited to support a biannual $500 microgrant award aimed at New and Restarting Student Sections (NRS). This initiative is designed to support new and restarting sections that demonstrate need,* in hosting new or expanded events. Funds should go towards events that strengthen and build your section's day-to-day operations in a self-sustaining way.

* Need, in the context of this award, refers to the demonstrable and critical requirement of financial support for a student section that is either in its nascent stage or re-establishing (in flux or dormant). It encompasses the essential funding necessary to initiate or propel the section's event, pivotal for their growth, fostering engagement, and sustaining their presence within the academic community.

Eligibility

New Sections: Defined as sections within five (5) years of the appointment of their first board.

Restarting Sections: Defined as sections that have been dormant or inactive within the last three (3) years and are now resuming activities, per the society’s Rule 19.1.

Purpose

This microgrant is intended to support the internal development of student sections, aiding in community-building activities rather than replacing existing grants. It cannot be used for travel to conferences. Potential uses include:

• Purchasing food for general section meetings
• Hosting recreational section events
• Supporting other internal development activities that will continue beyond the microgrant funding

Application Requirements

• Description of the section's current operating conditions
• An outline of a proposed event that will use the awarded funds
• A brief outline of your section's yearly costs
• A cost-itemized breakdown of the event.

Funding Details

• Total Award: $500 available per cycle
• Frequency: Twice a year (Fall Cycle: August-December; Spring Cycle: January-June)
• Initial Funding Source: Limited SSC fund managed by the Young Members Group (YMG)
• Disbursement: Via check or direct deposit, based on information in the winning section's annual report

Application Process

• Solicitation at the beginning of each cycle via email and newsletter
• Three-week application window
• Evaluation by judges from SSC and YMG against a pre-established rubric
• Results announced a month from the end of the application period

Reporting Requirements

Winning student sections must submit a summary report detailing the use of awarded funds. Failure to provide this report will result in disqualification from the upcoming award cycle. The SSC will monitor the impact of the financial assistance on the chapter’s growth and sustainability.

This microgrant offers new and restarting chapters the opportunity to grow into self-sustaining entities, fostering a healthier and stronger student presence within the society. We look forward to supporting the innovative ideas and community-building efforts of our student chapters!

Deadline: February 28