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Diversity and Inclusion Development (DID) Grant

USAC is committed to providing access to affordable, academically rigorous, and enriching cross-cultural learning abroad for all students. We celebrate diversity and strive to increase access, inclusion, equity, and support for underrepresented student populations.

Founded in 2018, the Diversity and Inclusion Development (DID) Grant is one way USAC provides study abroad and educational opportunities for diverse students. The funding was created to make study abroad more accessible for first-generation, non-traditional, STEM students, student athletes, LGBTQIA+ students, as well as students with disabilities, ethnic or racial minority backgrounds, financial hardship, and other identities.

How it works Application processTypes of projects Learn more

How does the DID Grant work?

This grant is open to all institutions on a rolling basis. Grant applications must propose a project, activity, or event to further recruit, serve, and retain underrepresented students and increase enrollments on USAC programs.

Award amounts range from $500 to $1,500 and recipients are determined by a USAC committee. Award amounts under $500 are also available if sufficient for an institution’s proposed event.

Underrepresented students

USAC would like to focus on increasing support for and participation in study abroad by students who self-identify as one or more of the following:

  • Economically disadvantaged
  • First-generation
  • LGBTQIA+
  • Non-traditional age students
  • Male (study abroad demographics are predominately female)
  • Racial and ethnic minorities (non-white/Caucasian)
  • STEM and other underrepresented majors
  • Student athletes
  • Students with disabilities
  • Additional identities (institution may provide information for consideration)

Application process

Step 1: Plan

Define your goals, objectives, timeline, list of deliverables, and comprehensive budget for a Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 project, activity, or event.

Successful applicants will propose projects, activities, or events that are likely to increase study abroad participation among underrepresented students in USAC programs. Preference is given to initiatives that have a lasting impact beyond the initial grant period.

Step 2: Apply

Complete the DID Grant Application

Applications are open August 23, 2024 - March 14, 2025 and are available until funding is exhausted, so apply early!

Step 3: Selection

If you are selected, you will be notified within two weeks of your proposal submission.

Step 4: Execute

Put on your project, activity, or event during the Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 term.

Proposed projects must be completed in their entirety by April 11, 2025 receive reimbursement.

Step 5: Submit summary

Submit your summary and request for reimbursement no later than two weeks following the completion of your approved project, activity, or event.

Receipts must be submitted by April 11, 2025 or USAC may not be able to provide funds.

Step 6: Receive award

Receive your reimbursement award about four weeks after USAC receives your completed summary.

What type of project could you do?

When applying for the DID Grant, institutions will need to share how they plan on using the funding. Ideas range from study abroad events inviting underrepresented communities to learn more about international education to fun and interactive game nights.

Institutions can also consider partnering with other offices, departments, and colleges on their campuses, such as Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) offices, disability support services, academic departments, etc.

Due to existing opportunities, this grant is not intended for scholarships, travel, staff training, passport drives, conference attendance, or other external use.

Recent project ideas institutions have hosted:

Five students at the University of Maine Diversity Education Abroad fair.Mini-fair

The University of Maine’s Education Abroad Office collaborated with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Student Accessibility Services Office to host a mini-fair for students called Diversify Education Abroad.

This tabling event offered LGBTQIA+, disabled, neurodivergent students, and students of color handouts, resources, and helpful information about study abroad. The funding was used to pay for printing costs, snacks, and drinks from a local bakery, and travel-related raffle prizes.

Poster with an illustration of a magnifying glass with a QR code inside and an orange head with a brain and lightbulb in it that reads "The study abroad office and MSS present Trivia Night. Free tacos, prizes, candy." Trivia night

The Center for International Education (CIE) and Multicultural Student Services Department of the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire (UWEC) received grant funding to host a fun Trivia night event.

In between trivia rounds about USAC programs, Multicultural Student Services, and study abroad at UWEC, CIE hosted student storytelling and discussion. In addition to the engaging game night, funding helped provide participants with free tacos, drinks, candy, and prizes.

Woman standing outside holding a Greek gyro over a paper plate.Event trifecta

The University of the Pacific’s study abroad office hosted three events in partnership with several units across campus.

The first event was a Students of Color Panel that highlighted the experience of studying abroad as a person of color.

Alumni also led two cooking sessions highlighting a dish they enjoyed eating when they studied abroad (Japanese okonomiyaki and Greek gyro) while talking about their experience and promoting education abroad opportunities.

Learn more

If you’re interested in applying for the DID Grant, you can start the application process or contact DIDgrant@usac.edu