Service Learning Grant Program for Educators powered by EPICS in IEEE & TryEngineering
The Service Learning Grant Program for Educators powered by EPICS in IEEE & TryEngineering empowers school-aged children (ages 5–17) to solve real-world problems through hands-on engineering. Students work in teams to follow a design process—identifying a challenge, designing a solution, building a prototype, and presenting their ideas—while developing key skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and empathy. Educators can receive up to $2,000 in funding for student prototyping materials and showcase needs.
Program Objectives
Through the project-based service learning experience, students will acquire and refine essential career-ready skills. Students will learn and apply:
- Problem Identification & Research
- Critical Thinking & Design
- Engineering & Prototyping
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Communication & Public Speaking
- Empathy & Community Awareness
Who is Eligible?
Those applying must be an educator of school-age children (ages 5-17), either in a formal school setting or an afterschool club.
What is Funded?
Educators can apply for up to USD $2000 to cover material costs to support students in successfully completing their prototypes and preparing for the final showcase.
These funds can be used to purchase essential supplies such as cardboard, tape, craft tools, electronics, and 3D printing resources.
Funding may also help enhance the final showcase experience, providing materials for display boards, signage, and presentation aids that allow students to confidently share their work with the community.
What is not Eligible for Grant Funding?
Prohibited items that are not eligible for funding include:
- Venue expenses
- Travel
- Refreshments
- Prizes
What is the Criteria?
The selected projects will be based on the project’s local impact, demonstrated student leadership, and adherence to the design process:
Criteria & Constraints
- Create a physical prototype of the solution.
- Use any available materials (e.g., cardboard, recyclables, 3D printer, tape).
- Solutions must be realistic and achievable within the school/community setting.
- The community stakeholder (for example, the school) must support the solution.
Scope & Scale
- Local Focus: Projects must address issues within the school or surrounding community.
- Student-Led: Students must drive the entire process, from idea to execution.
- Collaborative: Students must work in teams to share ideas, build together, and support one another.
What is the Submission Date and Timeline?
What Tool is Used for Evaluation?
Each application will be reviewed by three evaluators using this Evaluation Rubric.
What are the Terms and Conditions?
- A letter of support is required (from school, organization or community partner)
- A final report must be submitted by 1 December 2026.
- The school must agree to receive the funds from IEEE, and use them for the project as described in the approved budget.
- All funds must be spent during 2026.
- Support provided by this grant must be acknowledged in all program marketing.
- IEEE Photo Release forms will be completed by participants of TryEngineering STEM Grant-funded programs. IEEE Photo Release Form
Apply
The application is due 1 November 2026.