Strengthening Institutions Program FY 2026 Competition
This grant helps eligible colleges improve academics, management, and finances to boost their long-term self-sufficiency.
Funder: Office of Postsecondary Education
Due Dates: June 23, 2026 (Full application) | August 24, 2026 (Intergovernmental Review)
Funding Amounts: Individual grants: $2,250,000–$3,000,000 total for 5 years; Cooperative grants: up to $5,000,000 total for 5 years; ~600 awards; $350M+ program funding.
Summary: Supports eligible higher education institutions to improve academic programs, management, and fiscal stability for increased self-sufficiency.
Description
This program provides discretionary grants to eligible higher education institutions to enhance their academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability. The goal is to help these institutions expand their capacity to serve low-income students and become more self-sufficient. Projects may address a range of priorities, including workforce readiness, short-term credential programs, and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The competition includes both Individual Development Grants and Cooperative Arrangement Development Grants, each with a five-year project period.
