Game Changer Awards

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STUDENT SUCCESS MINI GRANTS

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The college believes innovation from faculty and staff creates a culture of excellence and improves opportunities for our students. OTC will award three grants of up to $10,000 each for innovative projects that address the four OTC Cares pillars.

1

Develop Your Idea

Recruit your team, brainstorm and access resources provided by the Center for Academic Innovation. Drop by one of their come-and-go virtual and in-person Idea Workshops referred to in the FAQ below for details.

GET SUPPORT

2

Submit Your Idea

Submit an application for your proposal to be considered to present at Innovation Celebration. The application process has been simplified and streamlined, so it’s easier than ever. Applications are due December 20, 2023.

SUBMIT IDEA

3

Present Your Idea

Finalists present their ideas to the college at Innovation Celebration, where winners are selected by a vote of your peers. The top three proposals with the most votes will receive $10,000 to implement their project!

APPLY NOW

FAQs

Who is eligible to apply?

All full-time faculty and staff are eligible to apply. Collaboration between employees and departments is encouraged. Grants may be awarded to individuals, programs, departments or inter-departmental teams.

What makes an application competitive?

The best applications come from creative, well-considered ideas. Need help developing your idea? Fill out the Idea Form and have access to resources from the Center for Academic Innovation. You can also check out this Game Changer Tips guide for more information.

When is the application period?

Applications open October 3, 2023 and are due December 20, 2023. Finalists will be notified in late January, and awards will be selected at Innovation Celebration on Development Day, February 20, 2023.

What criteria must be met in order to apply?

Projects must follow all application instructions, including approval by the respective Dean/Vice Chancellor. Funding cannot be used for certain expenses such as personnel or incentives. Please refer to the Game Changer Application for more information.

How will winners be chosen?

Finalists will be selected after the review and scoring of applications by Strategic Planning Council. These finalists will then have the opportunity to present their proposals to the collective college community at Innovation Celebration. Full-time faculty and staff will vote in real time during the event to choose the winning proposals.

Who do I contact with questions?

Questions can be directed to the Grants Office at grants@otc.edu or complete the Idea Form to receive more information about supports from the Center for Academic Innovation. During the application period, three optional, come-and-go Idea Workshops will be held for applicants to get assistance and feedback on project ideas. Workshops will be:

October 11, 3:30-4:30 p.m., (PMC 103AB, Springfield Campus)
October 20, 1-2 p.m. (PMC 155, Springfield Campus)
November 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (PMC 103AB, Springfield Campus)

Contact the CAI at facdev@otc.edu or (417) 447-4800 with questions.

What types of projects will be considered for funding?

Game Changer Grants are awarded to innovative projects that address the four OTC Cares pillars and OTC Strategic Plan, particularly projects that improve how we serve our students. Projects of a more limited scope are not likely to be as competitive, but Student Success Mini Grants may be appropriate.