UCAR President’s Advisory Committee for University Relations (PACUR) has established a community engagement fund, funded by the UCAR President's Office, with the goal of building and extending the UCAR community through: 

• Building community capacity for interdisciplinary, convergent, and use-oriented research; applying UCAR science to address the needs of historically underserved communities
• Enhancing instruction relating to UCAR science at all education levels and improving the dissemination of UCAR research to policy makers and to the public. 
• Increasing the diversity of participants in UCAR research and supporting the entry into and success within UCAR research of people from historically underrepresented groups.

The PCEF funds will be awarded annually through a competitive award process. In this, the first year of PCEF,  proposals are invited for workshops that build authentic and interdisciplinary partnerships among colleges, universities, and possibly other entities, such as local governments, non-governmental organizations, cultural institutions (e.g. museums) and two-year colleges. It is anticipated that different or a wider range of activities may be funded in future years.

What may be proposed?

This year, the proposal must be for a workshop to be held during summer or early fall 2023. Proposed workshops can address any of the above-listed goals of PCEF. Topics may include, but are not restricted to, scientific research and applications, mentoring, broadening participation and inclusion, equitable applications of research, engagement with the private or governmental sectors,  and professional development. Proposals should state explicitly how they will help to build an engaged community around UCAR science.

Who may apply?

Proposals must be led by a UCAR Member Institution and include at least one other partnering institution and/or a UCP/NCAR Lab, Program, or Center. Partnering institutions need not be UCAR members. Higher consideration will be given to proposals that also include a UCAR/NCAR lab or program. 

How may funds be used?

Funds must be spent to hold a new workshop (not to supplement an existing activity). The workshop may, however, coincide with an existing community meeting or activity. Proposals can include support for expert facilitators, speakers, travel support, host facilities, including the use of virtual meeting platforms, publications, and catering but no alcohol. Proposals can allow up to 26% indirect rate and the budget may include administrative support. Joint funding or co-sponsorship is welcome, but not required. Any co-sponsorship should be fully described within the proposal. Project funds must be spent within one year of their allocation. 

Number and size of awards

The goal of this program is to fund between 5-7 workshops annually depending on the amounts requested. Requests should not exceed $40,000. 

Timeline

• October 15 to December 31, 2022: applications accepted
• January 2023: Proposal reviews
• March 2023: awards announced
• Workshops should be held within 12 months of award granted.

Application process

Proposals will be evaluated based on all of the following: 

• Project summary (1 page) 
• Project description (maximum of 3 pages) that addresses the following:
  • How will the proposed workshop build relationships and engagement within and beyond the UCAR community? 
  • What other universities and or UCAR/NCAR Lab, Program or Center are partnering on this project? 
  • How will it contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusion within and beyond the UCAR community?
  • A list of all entities and organizations that will be invited to participate in the workshop.
  • A statement of specific outcomes that will benefit the UCAR community.
  • A plan for disseminating workshop results (this could include an article for EOS or BAMS, and posting to the UCAR Commons)
• A proposed list of invitees (types and groups, not specific individuals) 
• A detailed budget, including contributions from any co-sponsors - include proposed schedule of payment of funds over the life of the award (example: 30% at start/execution, 20% at midway, 50% at end or 50% at the start and 50% at the end) 
• For the lead institution and for each partnering entity
  • The name and contact information for the lead person 
  • A 2-page CV for that person
  • A brief statement how that entity will contribute to/participate in the proposed workshop

Submit your application here.

Questions?

Email Rachel Dammann at rdammann@ucar.edu for more information.