Flagship Fund Call for Proposals 2025
The Office of Strategic Planning and Implementation (OSPI) invites proposals for the Flagship Fund, a fund from which UM invests in projects that seek to translate UM’s Vision into action.
For UM to fully realize its vision of inclusive prosperity, we must work to amplify our strengths in areas where we have the potential for national distinction and clear differentiation. One of these areas is our commitment to a strong liberal arts foundation and a culture of service. UM is well positioned to meet our society’s need for civically engaged thinkers and leaders who can navigate the complexity of an AI-powered, politically divided, rapidly changing world.
This year, we invite proposals for one-year grants of up to $10,000 to foster the development of sophisticated and adaptable thinkers capable of asking enduring questions, of civic-minded problem solvers who strengthen our social fabric, and of service-oriented leaders who shape the future of our state and nation.
Funding will be available for these projects in the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
Submission Guidelines and Deadlines
Proposals may be from individuals or teams in any sector for projects designed to foster civic thought, action, and leadership. These projects may deepen understanding of the diverse human experience, further develop the uniquely human capacities of empathy, teamwork, creative problem-solving, and communication, and/or create opportunities for dialogue across difference. Preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate cooperation across offices or areas of expertise and that benefit cohorts rather than individuals.
The deadline for submission of proposals is March 1, 2025. The Flagship Fund Advisory Group – a group of UM faculty, staff, and students - will meet with proposal authors in late March to discuss the proposals submitted. The Advisory Group will make its recommendations to President Bodnar and Provost Lawrence by April 15, and leadership will finalize the decisions by May 1.