Mini-Grants For Employer-Engaged, Revenue-Generating Micro-Credentials
For the past several years, the University of Maine (UMS) Micro-Credential Steering Committee has offered mini-grant opportunities to develop a UMS micro-credential addressing workforce development needs in Maine. Collaborative teams are invited to submit proposals for funding to create and implement employer-engaged, revenue-generating UMS micro-credential pathways.
If you have ideas for other types of micro-credentials please inquire (e.g. UMS students, low income audiences, youth, etc.). For example, a separate funding source is available to develop Cultural Awareness micro-credentials or micro-badges.
Micro-credential pathways include the skills and competencies employers are seeking, as a means to upskill/reskill adults, youth, and/or UMS students/employees. All UMS micro-credentials follow the same three-level framework that takes a learner from foundational knowledge through application in a real-world setting. Micro-Credential Development Teams participate in training to guide them through the process, step-by-step, earning their own badges along the way.
Award amounts have historically been capped at $10,000. Funding is primarily used to compensate team members for their time. The timeline of past mini-grant cycles included a Request for Proposals announced in September, proposal submissions due in October, and notice of funding awards in November.
Priority topic areas selected by the Steering Committee reflect alignment with UMS strategic priorities and Maine workforce development plans, including:
- UMS Strategic plan
- The Maine Economic Development Strategy The 2024 Reset (External Link)
- The Maine Economic Development Strategy: A Focus on Talent and Innovation, 2020-2029 (External Link)
- Governor’s Economic Recovery Committee Recommendations to Sustain and Grow Maine’s Economy (External Link)