The University of Iowa Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity in the Chief Diversity Office is now accepting applications for the 2012-13 Diversity Catalyst Seed Grant. Program grants of up to $1,000 are available as seed funding to support creative projects and programs with immediate impact for enhancing the diversity goals of the UI's strategic plan.

Current UI students, faculty, and staff, as well as UI departments and organizations, are eligible to apply.

Funds are designated to support start-up projects or programs that have the potential for sustainability, demonstrate collaboration between at least two groups, departments, or organizations at the UI, and support a curricular domain.

Those who have a great proposal idea that will advance cross-cultural understanding, strengthen positive inter-group relations, and promote a welcoming and learning environment are encouraged to apply.

Some programs that have benefited from the Diversity Catalyst Seed Grant include the following: World Cultural Global Association (2012), Storytime@IOWA (2011), The Working Group Theatre Training on Gender and Identity Forum (2011), Advocacy Summit: Moving Beyond Dialogue (2011), Hispanic Cultural and Language Living-Learning Community program (2010), English Buddy Program (2009), Dentist-Interpreter Training Initiative (2009), MY IOWA (2008), Minority Student Nurse Association (2007), and many others.

“It is very satisfying to be able to award the Diversity Catalyst Seed Grants to new projects each year,” says Jennifer Modestou, director of the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity. “I’m always amazed at the creativity of our students, faculty, and staff in developing projects that will enhance diversity and inclusion efforts at the University of Iowa.”

To learn more about additional criteria and to download forms to submit your proposal, visit www.uiowa.edu/~eod/. Those interested can also send a note to diversity@uiowa.edu.