Western鈥檚 ambition is to accelerate and scale high-quality experience-driven learning opportunities that support students in their pursuit of meaningful careers and a life well lived. The 2025 Venture Grants seek innovative ideas that will pilot, inspire and provide distinctive experiences that will elevate WMU as a leader in experiential education. Awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000.
The 2025 grants are supported with financial investments from the Empowering Futures Gift, the Office of the Provost and the Office of the President.
How to apply and timing
by Jan. 22, 2025. Awardee announcements are anticipated by March 1, 2025. Awarded projects may begin immediately upon awarding and are expected to be completed by June 30, 2026.
Eligibility
Project teams must include at least one board-appointed faculty member and be led by a WMU faculty or staff member. Preference will be given to projects that are led by faculty. Projects that integrate learning from multiple courses across an academic program will also receive priority consideration. Projects with a focus on the uses, implications and ethical considerations of artificial intelligence will also be given greater consideration.
Incubator and Accelerator Grants
The Incubator and Accelerator grant applications have been condensed into a single application. Project teams that have implemented 2024 Incubator Grants may apply for an additional round of funding through this year鈥檚 single application.
Resources
Additional considerations
The Experience-Driven Learning Venture Grants do not contemplate or consider curriculum or course proposals or changes. Any related impact to courses or the curriculum would be considered through established University processes and procedures.
Questions
If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Sara Nelson, assistant vice president for strategic initiatives and interim associate vice president for enrollment management.
