Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) recognized the importance of institutions of higher education and workforce partners in supporting Michigan in moving closer to our goal of Sixty by 30; to increase the percentage of Michigan residents with degrees or postsecondary certificates to 60 percent by the year 2030. Michigan Reconnect is a transformative initiative designed to empower adult learners by providing them with a pathway to access to tuitionfree higher education, positioning them for better-paying, in-demand careers. By removing financial barriers and fostering college enrollment, Michigan Reconnect not only helps adult learners achieve their educational and professional aspirations but also directly contributes to Michigan’s economic vitality. A more educated workforce drives innovation, attracts investment, and enhances the state’s competitiveness in a rapidly changing global economy.
The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) invites institutions of higher education and our workforce partners interested in promoting Michigan Reconnect, ensuring more adult learners are aware of and take advantage of this program, and further advance Michigan’s efforts to create a skilled, resilient workforce for the future, to apply for this grant opportunity.
IMPORTANT DATES
Application Release: Application made available on February 4, 2025.
Deadline: Applications are due Sunday, February 23, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. to MCAN.
Application Notification: Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, February 28, 2025.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible applicants for Pathway 1 include Michigan community colleges and tribal colleges. Eligible applicants for Pathway 2 include workforce and industry associations, businesses, and MichiganWorks!. All applicants must demonstrate capacity and commitment to implementing strategies for the chosen pathway. Eligibility questions should be directed to: Jamie Storey, Director of Higher Education Innovation, 517-316-1713, jstorey@micollegeaccess.org.
APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
You are encouraged to contact MCAN to inquire about eligibility and to request technical assistance. Please contact Jamie Storey, Director of Higher Education Innovation, 517-316-1713, jstorey@micollegeaccess.org.) for assistance with your application or help with the online application portal.
PROPOSAL SUBMISSION
Proposals are only accepted using Michigan College Access Network’s online grants system.
GRANT AWARD
Grants do not require matching funding and are not intended to be renewable or long-term funding sources. The anticipated grant period will start on March 1, 2025, and end on February 28, 2026.
Pathway 1 – Institutional Outreach and Support for Reconnect Eligible Students
- Grant Amount: up to $8,000
- Focus: Engage and enroll students aged 21-24 who are approved for Michigan Reconnect but not currently benefiting from the program. Engage and enroll students aged 25 and older eligible for Michigan Reconnect not currently benefiting from the program.
- Eligible applicants: Michigan community colleges and tribal colleges
- Priority Populations: Approved Reconnect 21-24 Age Expansion students not receiving benefits, and students 25+ who are eligible for Michigan Reconnect but are not currently enrolled.
Pathway 2 – Leveraging Employers and Professional Networks to Advance Michigan Reconnect Participation and College Enrollment
- Grant Amount: $5,000
- Focus: This pathway aims to drive awareness, application, and enrollment in Michigan Reconnect by leveraging partnerships with employers, Michigan Works! sites, and workforce and industry associations.
- Eligible applicants: Workforce and Industry associations, Michigan Works!, and businesses.