• Mini-grant not to exceed $1,500.00. Funds must be spent by close of fiscal year.
• AU students, faculty, staff, alumni, emeriti, contract workers, and parents are eligible to apply.
• All applicants must partner (collaborate) across divisions, departments, units, individuals, and/or student organizations.
• Project must work to advance diversity, equity and inclusion at American University. This includes:
  • Mapping to at least one recommendation in AU’s Plan for Inclusive Excellence
  • Working to positively influence the climate for AU students, faculty, staff, alumni, emeriti, and contract workers.
  • Supporting a sustainable and/or scalable effort that may continue after grant funds are exhausted
  • Striving for reasonable goals and outcomes within the timeline indicated
• Grant funds may not be used for personnel expenses or equipment (computers, etc.).

• PCDI will accept applications throughout the academic year.

• Grant recipients must:

  • Complete projects and spend funds by the end of the fiscal year in which the grant is awarded.
  • Submit a final report of project outcomes by the end of the academic year in which the grant is awarded.  

For any additional questions not covered under the FAQs, please contact DICouncil@american.edu

1. How much are the grants?
   1. IE mini-grants range in value up to $1500.
2. What type of expenses are allowable?
   1. IE mini-grants are intended to fund programming costs (e.g., translators, videographers, food, program materials, etc.). IE mini-grants cannot be used to purchase equipment (e.g., computers) or to cover personnel expenses. 
3. When do grant funds need to be spent?
   1. Grant funds must be spent by the end of the fiscal year in which they are awarded.
4. What type of projects can be funded?
   1. The IE mini-grant program funds a wide variety of collaborative efforts in support of fostering a climate where people of all identities and experiences are understood, appreciated, and fully included. Examples of prior years’ IE mini-grant-funded projects are available here.
5. When does the project need to happen?
   1. Projects must take place before the end of the fiscal year in which they are awarded.
6. Can I do a project by myself?
   1. No. All projects must be rooted in collaborative partnerships. For example, student + faculty member, staff + staff, alumni + student organization, etc.
7. Can I apply for more than one mini-grant?
   1. Yes.