Outreach Grant Program

Introduction and Objective

The MBHS Magnet Foundation is excited to announce the launch of its Outreach Grant Program. This initiative aims to support innovative projects, programs, and activities that reach the broader community and prepare and attract a more diverse and highly qualified student applicant base. We welcome applications from staff, students, and other members of the Blair community for projects that align with this aspect of the Foundation’s mission.

Grant Objectives:

1. Promote awareness of the Magnet program to potential applicants, particularly in under-represented schools.

2. Create programs that develop more qualified candidates from underrepresented communities.

3. Support admitted students in accepting their admission.

4. Mentor and support students, particularly 9th graders, to create a more inclusive community.

Ideas can directly engage target audiences and highlight the Magnet program’s opportunities, address a clear barrier to entry, and/or reach families to increase application rates. Illustrative examples include: 

• Community STEM Workshops: Host free STEM workshops at under-represented schools to engage students with hands-on activities and introduce them to the Magnet program. 

• Admission Readiness Bootcamp: Offer workshops to help under-represented students develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate the Magnet admissions process.

• Parent Outreach and Support Program: Educate parents from under-represented communities about the Magnet program and how to support their children’s application journey.

Eligibility

• Who Can Apply: All members of the Blair community such as staff, former staff, students, parents of students, and alumni are eligible to apply. Projects may be proposed by individuals or teams.

• Funding Amounts: Grants are typically available in amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000 per project. The total amount allocated for this grant solicitation is $25,000.

• Eligible Expenses: Funds can be used for anything that supports the grant’s goals, such as materials, venue rental, technology, professional development, food, etc. Funds cannot be used for salaries or personal items.

How to Apply

1. Application Form: Complete the form below to submit your proposal. Describe the project, its goals, the target audience, expected outcomes, and a detailed budget.

2. Submission Deadline: Applications will be prioritized for review until March 30, 2025. Submissions after this deadline may also be considered.

Please contact grants@mbhsmagnet.org for more information or assistance. The Magnet Foundation Board will review grant applications, and applicants will be notified.

Review and Selection Criteria

The review committee will evaluate applications based on the following criteria:

1. Alignment with Strategic Priorities: How well the project supports the Outreach Grant’s goals.

2. Impact: The potential to positively affect a significant number of students or staff.

3. Feasibility and Sustainability: Likelihood of successful implementation and lasting impact.

4. Budget Clarity: Clear and realistic use of requested funds.

Timeline

• Launch Date: March 24, 2025

• Application Deadline: April 30, 2025

• Review Period: May 1, 2025 - May 30, 2025. Submissions may also be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline.

• Announcement of Awards: After May 5, 2025

• Project Implementation Period: Projects should be completed by September 1, 2026

Reporting Requirements

Grant recipients will be required to provide an update on the project two weeks after the project is completed and a final report, including outcomes and impact, no later than two months after their project is completed.

Grant Disbursement

1. Up-Front Funding (Corporations & Non-Profits)

   • If the total grant award is $5,000 or less, the entire amount may be provided upfront.

   • For grants exceeding $5,000, up to $5,000 may be funded upfront. The remaining balance will be reimbursed upon submission of appropriate documentation (e.g., receipts, invoices, etc.) demonstrating that expenses align with the approved budget.

2. Reimbursement Funding (Individuals)

   • Individual grantees will receive funding on a reimbursement basis, submitting receipts or invoices for approved expenses as they are incurred.

The specific disbursement method will be determined at the time of award and communicated in the grant agreement. If you have questions about the grant disbursement process, please contact Sharon Goodall, the Magnet Foundation Treasurer at treasurer@mbhsmagnet.org.

Questions?

For questions or more information, please contact grants@mbhsmagnet.org.