The Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education has launched the First in the World (FITW) grant program for higher education institutions to drive innovations in higher education and increase college affordability, completion, and quality outcomes through the development and testing of new approaches and strategies. This year, FITW will have two tiers:
In the development tier, projects will be funded in three areas (with specific descriptions in the announcement):
- Improving teaching and learning
- Developing and using assessments of student learning
- Facilitating pathways to credentialing and transfer
In the validation tier, projects will be funded in these four areas:
- Improving success in developmental education
- Improving teaching and learning
- Improving student support services
- Influencing the development of non-cognitive factors
In the 2015 fiscal year, $60 million will become available as part of the Obama Administration’s commitment to push education. Fifteen of the $60 million will be set aside for minority-serving institutions, which includes historically Black College and Universities. Applications for the program are due June 30, 2015.
Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, combinations of such institutions, and other public and private institutions and agencies. Applicants are eligible to qualify as a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) under the First in the World Competition if they meet at least one of the following conditions:
- Participated in the Department’s FY 2015 designation of eligibility process and received an approval letter
- Currently has an open grant under one of the Department’s Title III, Parts A and F and/or Title V programs
- Designated as a Historically Black College or University, or a Tribally Controlled College or University.
All applications should be submitted on online through Grants.gov. To complete a paper application, a written request must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the application deadline date. The First in the World team will host a pre-application webinar in partnership with the Institute of Education Sciences TODAY, May 19, 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm EDT.
Transform Consulting Group has worked with numerous programs across the state to find funding that supports college and career readiness initiatives. From creating a comprehensive fund development plan to submitting a full grant proposal, Transform Consulting Group is available to support your organization’s efforts. Contact us today for a free consultation!
