• Grow Our National Contest: Strengthen the program’s visibility and participation nationwide.
• Highlight Civically Engaged Students: Provide a public platform for young people to present their community service, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement projects.
• Encourage Continued Civic Participation: Motivate both students and teachers to initiate and sustain civic engagement projects beyond the classroom.
• Support Educators as Local Leaders: Equip teachers with the resources, training, and recognition needed to organize impactful civics fairs.
• Build Community Connections: Bring together schools, families, and local partners to celebrate civic engagement at the community level.

Use of Funds

• Funds must be used for hosting the Civic Fair and related expenses (stipend, prizes, materials).

• Funds may not be used for general classroom supplies or unrelated travel.

• Funds must be expended within six (6) months of receipt.

• Grantee must submit a final report within 30 days after the event.

Before the event, grantee must provide:

• A written update on event planning progress or discuss the planning with Institute staff via phone or web-conference

After the event, grantee must provide:

• The number of students participants

• Summary of fair activities and highlights

• Summary of each student project

• Event photos and or media. Documentation should include at least 5 photos and or videos.

• A signed media release form is required for every documented participant.

• Budget reconciliation

• 250-word educator reflection on what worked well and lessons learned

• Summative student program evaluation