Proposed projects will seek to build or strengthen the infrastructure and capacity for exploring new research projects through convening thought leaders to envision how to establish new structures, spaces, or activities. These might include gatherings around a particular topic, thematic symposia or “elevator talks”, convenings of small groups of invited scholars or research clusters, open forums, discussion groups on social media, lectures, film screenings, workshops, etc.

Priority will be given to projects that cross traditional borders among disciplines, departments, divisions, campuses, countries, and/or institutions (e.g. academy/community), and we encourage collaborations that include both graduate students and faculty, and that include collaboration among faculty across ranks. The work supported by seed grants is expected to be open-ended, and no specific “deliverables” are required for these grants. However, proposals are expected to articulate how the activities will lead to the next steps for the development of the idea, project, or proposal, and what mechanisms will be included to ensure that this happens.

Submission Requirements for Seed Grants:

• Project abstract (750 character limit)
• Project narrative including activity description, participants, and frequency (3,000 character limit)
• Project justification – please articulate how the activities will lead to next steps for the development of the idea, project, or proposal  (1,000 character limit)
• Relevance to the goals and commitments of the institute (1,000 character limit)
• Budget (PDF)
• An abbreviated CV of all key personnel  (5 pages maximum) (PDF)

Proposed sprout grant projects will endeavor to make significant progress on one or multiple crucial aspects of promising research related to the goals of the Institute for Social Transformation. Priority will be given to projects that cross traditional borders among disciplines, departments, divisions, campuses, countries, and/or institutions (e.g. academy/community). We encourage collaborations that include both graduate students and faculty, and that include collaboration among faculty across ranks. Projects might include the development of proposals for external funding, completion of literature reviews, creation of data sets, completion of data analysis, or pilot research projects.

Sprout awards recipients are expected to complete the proposed work within one year.

Additional Eligibility (Sprout only):

• Existing research project with a plan to move forward, such as applying for external funding.

Additional Selection Criteria (Sprout only):

• Plan for moving the research project forward, including identifying and applying for additional external funding

Submission Requirements for Sprout Grants:

• Project abstract (750 character limit)
• Project narrative including: project rationale, project description, significance and impact (5,000 character limit)
• Project justification – please articulate how the activities will lead to next steps for the development of the project or proposal and the expected deliverables or outcomes. Tell us what will be sprouted by this funding. Sprout grants are intended to advance promising research projects by supporting pilot or initial data collection, and/or pursuit of external funds. Grants in this category aim to provide scholars with financial support to intensify existing efforts to move a promising project or research plan forward, including identifying and applying for additional external funding. Please name the funding opportunity if known. (2,000 character limit)
• Relevance to the goals of the institute (1,000 character limit)
• Budget (PDF)
• Description of project personnel and collaboration plan (2,000 character limit)
• Abbreviated CV of all key personnel  (5 pages maximum each) (PDF)

To boost visibility, enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance outreach to the Santa Cruz community, the institute supports scholars with publicizing completed research and connecting with relevant stakeholders. Proposed activities could include funding for a faculty member’s book launch event, working with the institute to develop a website or StoryMap associated with a significant publication, travel for the scholar to showcase their research or launch a collaboration, or a forum for policy-makers and practitioners related to newly-completed research. Proposed projects must contribute broadly to the goals and commitments of the institute.

Submission Requirements for Harvest Grants:

• Project abstract (750 character limit)
• Project narrative including project rationale, project description, significance and impact (3,000 character limit)
• Relevance to the goals of the Institute for Social Transformation (1,000 character limit)
• Budget (PDF)
• An abbreviated CV of all key personnel  (5 pages maximum each) (PDF)

Allowable expenses include, but are not limited to:

• Undergraduate research assistance is allowed. However, we strongly encourage faculty to apply for the institute’s Building Belonging Program.
• Summer GSR salary and benefits or support for graduate student assistants during non-academic terms (i.e. winter, spring, or summer break)
• Compensation (i.e. honoraria) for research and community partners, faculty outside of the UC system, or other non-UC collaborators
• Course release, in special circumstances where time release is needed to conduct research, not intended for proposal writing (If the course release is included in the proposed budget, please provide a copy of the email approval from the Department Chair)
• Travel, lodging, and per diem for the applicant, student, or participants contributing to the project
• Supplies that are integral to the project/event (must not be a significant proportion of the budget)
• Publishing, books, or offprints for distribution to a targeted audience of relevant scholars and/or stakeholders
• Media services or instructional support fees
• Data access fees and software licenses (strong justification including specific repositories and licenses, must be provided regarding the need for these to complete the proposed project)
• Event/meeting costs (i.e. space rental fees, working refreshments, equipment rentals, recording costs, etc.)

Prohibited expenses include:

• Graduate student assistants during academic quarters
• UC faculty salary, including summer salary (other than student assistants)
• Alcohol
• Computers, software, or other equipment (exceptions may exist with strong justification. See COR funds.)