Opportunity Grants

Applications must be submitted using the online application form. Applications must be submitted by the deadline stated on the form. The application and deadline information will be shared annually via email, but the application typically runs from February to May.

The application will request the following information:

• Details of the event or program and how the funds will be used to support it;
• A budget and outline of anticipated expenses;
• Information about additional funding secured, if applicable.

Applicants may request between $250 and $3,000 USD in funding. Members are encouraged to seek additional external funding support, if possible.

Examples of Opportunity Grant Proposals

• Expenses associated with the development and implementation of special projects such as design, printing, postage, venue rental, audio-visual equipment, transportation, event food, etc.
• Workshops for counselors in your region to support professional development.
• Buses to bring students from an under-resourced or under-served school to your college fairs or programming.
• Programming that aligns with and promotes International ACAC’s Mission and Guiding Principles, and promotes global interaction among counselors and institutions in support of secondary students transitioning to higher education.

The selection committee consists of a member from the Advocacy & Outreach Committee, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee, Finance Committee, Inclusion, Access, & Success Committee, and Professional Development Committee, as well as a member of the Leadership Team.

The potential positive impact and number of individuals served by the grant will be taken into account, with priority given to applicants who meet the following criteria:

• The application is complete, detailed, and thoughtful.
• The application provides a detailed plan for the use of the funds.
• The applicant has sought additional funding or matching funds from other sources. (Not required, but encouraged).
• The request provides assistance to under-served constituencies.
• The application includes details about sustainability of the project or program in future years (if applicable).

Follow-Up

Following selection as an Opportunity Grant recipient (grantee), the grantee must agree to:

• Use the grant within the calendar year in which it was received.
• Submit a detailed description of the use of the awarded funds and the outcomes achieved within one month following the event or program.
• Submit a detailed expense report and receipts of all expenses incurred using the International ACAC Expense Report Form within one month following the event or program. Reimbursement will not be issued until these items have been received by the Opportunity Grants Committee.
• Submit photos and a written report summarizing the overall experience within one month following the event or program. This information will be shared with the International ACAC membership on the website, through member communications, and/or through International ACAC’s social media accounts.