Penn State University Libraries - Innovation Microgrant Program

The University Libraries (UL) Microgrant Program is designed to support small projects that foster innovation in support of the University Libraries strategic initiatives. Proposals will be competitively selected by the UL Innovation Microgrant Program Review Committee. This program is open to all faculty and staff. Collaboration among colleagues is highly encouraged.

1. All staff and faculty of the University Libraries and Penn State University Press are eligible to submit a proposal.
2. The grant proposals must support the mission, vision, values and goals articulated in the University Libraries Strategic Plan.
3. Each proposal must have a principle investigator (PI) but may have one or more co-PIs.
4. All funds are awarded for duration of one fiscal year and must be fully expended by June 15 of the current fiscal year.
5. Approval from your supervisor and department head must be obtained. When faculty and staff from more than one department collaborate, all department heads must approve.
6. Proposals including a technology component must be reviewed by the Head of I-Tech, or designate, one week prior to submission.
   

The University Libraries Innovation Microgrant Program Review Committee will consist of faculty and staff from across the University Libraries and the Penn State Press to be appointed annually. Each proposal will be evaluated according to the same criteria:

1. Innovation.
2. The degree to which the project supports the mission, vision, values and goals in the University Libraries Strategic plan.
3. The justification or statement of the need for the project, including sustainability or impact.
4. The presentation and comprehensiveness of the proposal.
5. The appropriateness of the budgetary request.

Funding Amount:

Funds will be awarded up to $3000.00 for not more than four grants.

Use of Funds:

Microgrant funds may be used for, but use is not limited to, speakers, facilitators, trainers, consultants, part-time assistance or other personnel, services, equipment or software. Submit questions regarding purchasing, reimbursement, etc. to the Business Office.

To apply, complete the PSUL Innovation Microgrant Application form . The form is available as a fill and print in your browser, or you may print a copy and complete it by hand. You must obtain all signatures, then the original, signed copy should be scanned or sent via campus mail to Sandy Confer, 510 Paterno Library.

Submit questions regarding the development of your proposal to the members of the Review Committee. Members of the 2012 - 2013 Review Committee are:

Dace Freivalds, Chair
Sandy Confer
Jaime Jamison
Jennifer Norton
Emily Rimland
Amy Rustic
Ann Snowman

Click here for a complete list of award recipients, as well as mid-year and year-end reports.