The application window for these opportunities has closed.

The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is excited to launch two new opportunities for in-depth work to strengthen supports for student mental wellbeing and enhance partnerships to support students with learning differences. Through the generosity of the ECMC Foundation and Oak Foundation, respectively, NCAN will provide a total of 14 grants to NCAN member organizations over the next four years to expand their capacity in support of students’ mental well-being and the postsecondary transition of students with learning differences. 

In addition to the direct grant opportunities available to NCAN members, NCAN will provide regular professional development opportunities to all members on these topics through webinars, blog posts, peer exchanges, e-learning courses, and our national conference. We will also spotlight existing NCAN member organizations that have adopted and proven strategies in these areas while also sharing grantees’ key learnings throughout the grant projects.

Strengthening Postsecondary Transitions for Students with Learning Differences Overview (Oak Foundation)

A sample application can be found here.

NCAN will select a total eight member organizations, four in each grant cycle (through a competitive application process) to receive a $45,000 grant over two years to build new or better postsecondary transition protocols with their selected partner colleges and universities for students with learning differences.  

The purpose of this grant is to aid members in better supporting postsecondary transitions for students experiencing learning differences. The Oak Foundation defines students with learning differences as students with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, as well as individuals who may have other related neurological processing challenges that can impact learning, such as attention deficits, sensory processing disorders, and executive function challenges. It includes students who have been tested and received a formal diagnosis, a 504 plan, or an individualized education plan (IEP) as well as those who have yet to receive formal accommodations.  

Addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion will be a fundamental theme in this initiative. Students who have learning differences that are served by our members are also experiencing inequity in higher education based on race and economic circumstances. Pushing for the right of attainment necessitates that we expand current programming to better serve students facing these multiple obstacles. 

Supporting the Whole Student Through Mental Health and Wellbeing Overview (ECMC Foundation) 

A sample application can be found here.

NCAN will select six member organizations (through a competitive application process) to receive intensive technical assistance and a $30,000 grant over two years to assess their mental health and wellness strategies, create or modify related student support, or train staff and volunteers. In this cohort-like model, grantees will receive group support and one on one consulting provided by an expert and proven consultant to be identified by NCAN.  

This grant will help members support students' mental health and wellbeing in their postsecondary pursuits. This initiative seeks to improve supports to the whole student by addressing needs such as food, housing, childcare, mental health, financial assistance, and transportation. These resources are critical for ensuring strong academic performance, increasing persistence and graduation, and improving wellbeing among students enrolled in postsecondary education.  

Inequities in these areas have been magnified since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and have been thrust into the forefront of discourse on college access and success. Professionals on both ends of college admissions have adjusted and incorporated efforts to address these needs. 

Eligibility Guidelines

Applicants for both opportunities must be current NCAN members that are up to date on their annual dues. Oak Foundation applicants should have existing partnerships with postsecondary institutions (or strongly positioned potential partnerships). ECMC Foundation applicants should have existing (formal or informal) supports for students’ wellbeing to improve upon and have an operational budget equal to or below $2 million.

Grant Timeline 

• October 18, 2022: Grant Applications Open! 
• December 1, 2022: Applications for both opportunities are due 
• January 10, 2023: Selected Applicants Notified 
• February 6, 2023: ECMC Phase 1 Begins
• February 13, 2023: Oak Phase 1 Begins

NCAN hosted an informational webinar on October 28 about these two grant programs. Click here to watch the recorded video.