[Council of Independent Colleges](https://cic.edu)

June 2026 (Application deadline, projected)

Over $5 million distributed since inception; individual award size not specified; 1:1 minimum third-party match required.

Supports innovative, collaborative projects that strengthen independent higher education through State Councils and their partners.

Only CIC State Councils are eligible to apply; matching funds are mandatory.

--- ## Description The National Venture Fund grant program, administered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), aims to strengthen independent higher education in the United States by supporting innovative and collaborative projects among CIC State Councils, their member colleges, and a variety of partners. The program encourages creative solutions and partnerships with foundations, corporations, government agencies, individuals, and nonprofit organizations. Grants are designed to enrich educational opportunities for students and bolster the programs of independent colleges, with a strong emphasis on sector-wide impact. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (application deadline, anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Since inception, over $5 million has been distributed to support more than 140 grant programs. - Each grant requires a minimum 1:1 match from third-party sources (e.g., foundations, corporations, government agencies, or other nonprofits). - Individual award sizes are not specified; matching funds historically exceed the minimum requirement. --- ## Eligibility - Only CIC State Councils are eligible to apply. - Projects must include a minimum 1:1 match from third-party sources. - State Councils collaborate with their member colleges and external partners. - The program is not open to individual researchers or institutions outside the CIC State Councils network. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted by eligible CIC State Councils. - Proposals should demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and potential for sector-wide impact. - Applicants must secure and document third-party matching funds as part of the proposal. - For further details or to begin the application process, contact the CIC State Councils program representative. --- ## Additional Information - The program has a proven track record, with more than $17.5 million in total economic impact when including matching and ongoing support. - Ongoing local support for projects often exceeds initial matching contributions. - The fund is supported by the CIC State Councils Endowment. --- ## External Links - [Program Page: State Councils National Venture Fund Grants](https://cic.edu/opportunity/national-venture-fund-grants) - [About CIC’s State Councils](https://cic.edu/networks/netvue) - [Council of Independent Colleges Home](https://cic.edu) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |----------------------------|----------------------------------|-------------------| | Sherita C. Ashmon, Director of State Councils and Networks Support | [sashmon@cic.edu](mailto:sashmon@cic.edu) | (202) 466-7230 | | General CIC Contact | [cic@cic.edu](mailto:cic@cic.edu) | (202) 466-7230 |

State Councils National Venture Fund Grants

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