VCU Student Civic Engagement Microgrants 2026
Up to 12 microgrants ranging from $500 to $1,000 are available for VCU student groups and teams working with Richmond community partners.
Make an Impact. Get Funded.
Funding
Receive $500–$1,000
to bring your idea to life.
Partnerships
Build connections with
Richmond community
partners and organizations.
Skills
Gain hands-on experience in
leadership, project management,
and grant writing.
Impact
Create meaningful, lasting
change in our communities
through student-led projects.
Youth Mentoring & Tutoring
Work with local schools or MFYC programs to support youth through mentoring, tutoring, and enrichment
Tech & Digital Support
Provide web design, social media strategy, or database development for nonprofits
Environmental & Clean-Up
Support community garden, urban greening projects, or neighborhood/cemetery clean-ups
Community Wellness
Lead mental health campaigns, support language access in clinics, or create elder support programs
Resource Drive
Organize food, clothing, or recycling drives tailored to community-identified needs
Who is Eligible?
- Open to VCU student clubs, organizations, or collaborative student groups
- Must partner with a community member, group, nonprofit, or local organization. We can help you find a partner
- Proposals must include a letter of support from your community partner (and a faculty sponsor, if applying as a student group).
Roadmap & Key Dates
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| Sept 16, 2026 | Virtual Informational Session | 4:00-5:00 PM |
| Sept 30, 2026 | In-person Training | 4:00-5:30 PM Community Networking Reception | 5:30-7:00 PM Mary and Frances Youth Center 120 S Linden St, Richmond, VA |
| Oct 5, 2026 | Proposal Launched |
| Oct 23, 2026 | Optional Grant Writing Session | 10:00-11:00 AM |
| Nov 13, 2026 | Proposals Due |
| Dec 11, 2026 | Awardees Announced |
| Jan 19, 2027 | Project Start Date / Grant Initiation Date |
| Apr 16, 2027 | Celebration | 4:00-6:00 PM |
| Apr 23, 2027 | Project Completion Date |
| May 4, 2027 | Final Written Report Due |
Ready to Apply? Here's How to Start.
Learn
Attend or watch the virtual information session.
Connect
Join the Networking Session in September to meet potential community partners.
Develop
Draft your 2-page proposal, abstract, budget, and letters of support.
Submit
Submit your application via Google Forms by November 13, 2026. Applications open in October.
Questions or need help finding a community partner?
We are here to help! Reach out to learn more about the program or connect with partners.
Misti Mueller
Executive Director
Mary and Frances Youth Center
muellermr@vcu.edu
Shari Garmise
Executive Director, Collective Urban and Regional Impact
Division of Community Engagement
garmiseso@vcu.edu