Reconnect Now Grants
MCAN recognizes the importance of institutions of higher education and workforce partners in moving Michigan closer to our goal of Sixty by 30. Michigan Reconnect is a transformative initiative designed to empower adult learners by providing them with a pathway to tuition-free degrees and certificates, 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, it 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. 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 advancing Michigan’s efforts to create a skilled, resilient workforce for the future — to apply for this grant opportunity.
IMPORTANT DATES
Application Release: Feb. 4, 2025
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. Feb. 23, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
Application Notification: Successful applicants will be notified by Feb. 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. Questions about eligibility or requests for technical assistance should be directed to Jamie Storey, director of higher education innovation, at 517-316-1713 or jstorey@micollegeaccess.org.
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 March 1, 2025, and end Feb. 28, 2026.
PROPOSAL SUBMISSION
Proposals are only accepted using MCAN’s online grants system.
Grants
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 or older who are eligible for Michigan Reconnect but not currently enrolled.
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.