Pathway to Excellence Grant
The NCAA Pathway to Excellence Grant supports entry-level athletics administration roles at Division III schools to increase diversity and develop future leaders in collegiate sports administration.
Funder: National Collegiate Athletic Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (application open) | January 2027 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $30,000/year for two years (salary support) + $3,000/year (professional development); requires $5,000/year in-kind match from recipient; up to 46 awards annually.
Summary: Supports entry-level, full-time athletics administration positions at NCAA Division III schools/conferences to advance diversity and leadership development.
Description
The Pathway to Excellence Grant is designed to increase diversity and expand leadership opportunities within collegiate athletics administration at NCAA Division III institutions and conferences. This two-year grant funds full-time, entry-level administrative positions, specifically targeting the inclusion of underrepresented groups such as veterans and first-generation professionals. Grant-supported positions provide broad experience in strategic planning, budget management, compliance, student-athlete welfare, and diversity initiatives, with the goal of fostering future leaders and introducing new perspectives to athletics administration.
