WMI Micro-Grants Program
Eligibility
The WMI Micro-Grants Program is open exclusively to all WMI Graduate Scholars and WMI Student Scholars who will complete their final exams for their undergraduate degree by December 31st of the application cycle year. Preference is given to those who are actively involved in WMI Fellowship groups (if present within their nation) and participation in Scholar Journey opportunities.
Only applications from WMI Scholars will be reviewed and funded. Applications from organizations and private individuals are accepted.
Purpose
The WMI Micro-Grants Program will provide a grant of $100 to $1000 USD to help start, or significantly expand, a business, community-based organization (CBO), non-governmental organization (NGO), community service project or community event.
If approved, the grant funds will generally be unrestricted and can be used for program expenses, operating expenses, materials and supplies, etc.
WMI Graduate Scholars are supported through the Micro-Grants Program to utilize their knowledge and skills to create positive change in their communities. Through the process of a needs assessment, the proposed project, event or business should relate directly to local needs, challenges and opportunities.
Application Process
The Micro-Grants Program has one application period per year. The application process takes place in two-stages.
All WMI Graduate Scholars interested in receiving a grant must submit a first draft of their application by October 15.
Applications are then reviewed by WMI Staff who specialize in project development, budgeting, implementation, measurement & evaluation and sustainability. Each WMI Scholar is provided with feedback and individual coaching between the months of October and November.
All applicants have the opportunity to revise their applications for funding review and submit a final compete application by December 1.
Application Timeline
First draft MG Application due: October 15
Review & revision coaching: October & November
Final revised MG Application due: December 1
Award announcement sent via email: January 1
MG funds sent: First week of February
Reporting Requirements
Grantees are not required to pay back the funds received from the WMI Micro-Grants Program, as long as they adhere to the following:
- Implement the proposed project within 1 year of receiving grant funding
- Communicate as soon as possible if major changes need to be made to the proposed project
- Submit the required three-month report and annual report by the deadlines published
Maximum Participation
WMI Graduate Scholars are eligible to receive a maximum of two Micro-Grants. Graduate Scholars interested in this possibility can only apply for a second Micro-Grant after waiting two-years since their first approval. The second Micro-Grant application can be written to support the same project or a new idea.
Questions or Concerns?
To seek application assistance or to learn more about this program, please write to the WMI Graduate Scholar Coordinator, nicole@wellsmountian.com.
