Call for Proposals: Experiential Learning Projects
Overview
The South Carolina General Assembly has made a significant, ongoing investment in experiential learning—underscoring the importance of programs that directly connect education, workforce development, and economic growth across the state. This recurring funding is intended to spark innovative, hands-on learning experiences that deepen corporate engagement and strengthen South Carolina’s talent pipeline. We are seeking bold, creative proposals that empower students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings while building meaningful partnerships with industry, particularly companies with a strong footprint in South Carolina.
Proposals should demonstrate clear educational value, meaningful industry collaboration, and the potential for sustained impact on students and academic programs.
Submission Instructions
Proposals are limited to two pages and should be sent via the submission form linked below. Questions regarding this call may be directed to Sean Brittain, Associate Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Learning.
Available Funding
Total program allocation: $3,000,000 (recurring)
Award Sizes
Award amounts should be commensurate with scope, student impact, and demonstrated readiness for implementation. We anticipate funding approximately 5-10 projects with budgets ranging from about $50,000 to $2,000,000. Note that this funding is not intended to replace Creative Inquiry. Small projects that fit within the scope of CI should apply for support there.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include Clemson University faculty or University units proposing experiential learning activities embedded within courses, co-curricular programs, or structured partnerships with industry. Proposals must include at least one committed external partner from industry.
Renewal Proposals
Previously funded experiential learning projects are eligible to apply for renewal funding. Renewal proposals should clearly describe progress to date and articulate how continued investment will enhance student outcomes and industry engagement.
Renewal awards will be assessed based on: - Demonstrated outcomes from the initial funding period - Continued alignment with institutional priorities, including Clemson Elevate - Clear potential for deeper or expanded engagement with industry partner(s)
Allowable Expenses
Funds may be used for the following project-related expenses:
- Travel necessary to support experiential learning activities
- Equipment, materials, and supplies dedicated to the project
- Term-limited salary support for personnel essential to the project (e.g., graduate assistants)
All requested expenses must be clearly justified and directly tied to project outcomes. These awards are not intended to replace initiatives currently funded with institutional resources.
Proposal Timeline
- Proposal Submission Deadline: 6 March 2026
- Award Notifications: 27 March 2026
- Funding Available: Fiscal Year 2027
- Final Report Due: 31 July 2027
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated using the following criteria:
- Student Impact
Number of students engaged annually and depth of the experiential learning experience - Industry Partnership
Strength of the collaboration, including evidence of partner commitment and matching funds or in-kind support - Budget and Feasibility
Appropriateness and justification of the proposed budget relative to outcomes - Strategic Alignment
Alignment with Clemson Elevate and broader institutional priorities
Preference will be given to projects that demonstrate scalability, cross-disciplinary engagement, or long-term sustainability.
Proposal Evaluation Rubric
Proposals will be reviewed using the rubric below. Reviewers will assess both the quality of the proposed experiential learning and the readiness of the project for implementation.
| Criterion | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Student Impact | Number of students engaged annually; quality, intensity, and authenticity of the experiential learning experience | 30% |
| Industry Partnership | Strength of industry collaboration; evidence of commitment (financial, in-kind, mentoring, data, access) | 25% |
| Budget & Feasibility | Appropriateness of budget relative to scope; clarity of implementation plan and staffing | 20% |
| Strategic Alignment | Alignment with Clemson Elevate and institutional priorities; contribution to workforce development | 15% |
| Sustainability & Scalability | Potential for long-term continuation, growth, or replication beyond the funding period | 10% |
Projects receiving the highest overall scores will be recommended for funding. Reviewers may request revisions or clarification prior to final award decisions.
Reporting Requirements
Awardees will be required to submit a final report summarizing project activities, student outcomes, industry engagement, and use of funds. Additional interim reporting requirements may be specified at the time of award.
