Division II Opportunity Grants
NCAA Division II Opportunity Grants fund new administrative and coaching positions to advance diversity and professional growth for underrepresented groups in collegiate athletics.
Funder: National Collegiate Athletic Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (applications open) | February 2027 (applications close)
Funding Amounts: Internship Grant: $30,000 + $3,000 professional development (1 year); Strategic Alliance Matching Grant: up to 3 years (75%/50%/25% salary support + development/tech funds); Coaching Enhancement Grant: $25,000/$15,000/$8,000 per year (3 years) + $1,200/year professional development
Summary: Supports new administrative and coaching positions at NCAA Division II institutions to advance diversity and professional growth for underrepresented groups in collegiate athletics.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected and may shift.
Description
The NCAA Division II Opportunity Grants program provides funding to Division II member institutions and conferences aiming to increase diversity and representation in athletics administration and coaching. The program encompasses three distinct funding streams:
- Internship Grant: One-year funding for full-time, entry-level administrative positions targeting individuals from underrepresented groups.
- Strategic Alliance Matching Grant: Three years of diminishing support for new or enhanced mid- to senior-level administrative roles, with a requirement to sustain the position for at least two additional years post-grant.
- Coaching Enhancement Grant: Three-year support to establish new full-time assistant coach positions, designed to improve access and retention of underrepresented groups in coaching.
Each grant requires a comprehensive proposal detailing the position, supervision and mentorship plans, hiring strategies, professional development, and institutional commitment to diversity and belonging. The program’s overarching goal is to expand leadership opportunities, foster professional growth, and promote sustainable diversity within NCAA Division II athletics.
