Student Green Fund Project Proposal
The Student Green Fund (SGF) at the University of Toledo supports a wide range of innovative projects aimed at advancing campus sustainability. The potential for new initiatives is only limited by the creativity of the student body and the available resources of the fund. From renewable energy installations and public demonstration kiosks to community outreach initiatives, such as urban gardens, SGF empowers students to dream big and create lasting change.
One exciting opportunity for the future could be a sustainability lecture series or workshops for student leaders, inspiring collaboration and sparking ideas for new proposals. On-campus renewable energy projects not only generate clean power but also serve as educational platforms, showcasing UT’s cutting-edge research and sustainability achievements. Transforming nearby vacant properties into urban gardens could foster strong community relations and provide hands-on learning for students.
Submission of Grant Proposals
Students and university-recognized student organizations can submit project proposals via the SGF website. Applications require thorough research, a detailed budget, and a clear timeline. While faculty and staff are not eligible to apply directly, they are welcome to advise and support student-led proposals. This ensures the SGF remains focused on empowering students to lead sustainability efforts, while faculty-initiated class projects can also benefit from SGF resources.
Who can apply for funds from the Student Green Fund?
Any currently enrolled student or recognized student organization may apply for funding from the SGF. University faculty, staff, and administrators are also allowed to apply for funding, with the requirement that the funds directly involve one or more students for things like sustainability-focused internships or research projects.
Project Requirements
- Project proposals may be submitted by University of Toledo students, student organizations, faculty, staff, or administrators. All proposals submitted by faculty, staff, and administrators must have a minimum of one student participant that will have a major role in the implementation of the project. Individuals or organizations outside of the University of Toledo may not submit proposals.
- Projects must address environmental sustainability issues on the University of Toledo campuses (Main Campus, HSC, and Scott Park) in a direct manner, or involve on-campus activities that serve to promote sustainability on and off campus.
- Project proposals must include appropriate background information, including relevant research into other institutions that have implemented similar projects (if any exist).
- Project authors are highly encouraged to seek additional means of funding through existing university departments or programs and outside sponsors to promote a collaborative experience for all students involved and to expand the potential scope of all projects. The Student Green Fund will not, however, fund projects that are already fully supported by administrative and departmental budgets or outside donors.
- The Student Green Fund will not support projects that violate any local, state or federal laws.
- All projects must include considerations for proper waste disposal of any materials to be physically placed on campus.
- All projects must include a timeline for completion, detailed with appropriate milestones and expected disbursements of funding.
- Projects must include an appropriate budget with estimated or actual costs for all supplies and installations. Any correspondence with vendors, including quotes for products and services, should be attached to the proposals.
- All projects must include some mechanism for post-project evaluation, including completion of the current SGF Post-Project Report available on the SGF website. If projects are projected to have ongoing cost savings to the University, an appropriate method for tracking, recording, and reporting these benefits to the SGFC must be established. These ongoing reports should be made at least once per semester (including summer).
- All projects must have publicity, education, and outreach considerations.
What is involved in the presentation to the committee?
While there are no strict requirements for presentation to the committee, you will be allotted 20 to 30 minutes of time to adequately present your proposed project to the members of the SGFC. A PowerPoint presentation is encouraged, and any presentation should include details that address the requirements listed above. Any visuals that encourage and support your proposal as a sustainability initiative are appreciated. All presentations will be open to the public, and you may invite any persons that can speak on behalf of your proposal that you would like. Following your presentation, there will be about 10 to 15 minutes of time available for open questions.
When are proposals due?
Project proposals will be accepted at any time on a rolling basis. After submission, your project leader will be contacted to schedule an in-person presentation with the SGFC.
Voting and New Projects
The SGFC reviews and votes on proposals based on feasibility, sustainability impact, and alignment with the University’s mission. Only student members have voting rights, and at least four responses are required for a valid vote. Members must abstain from voting on proposals where they have conflicts of interest. In the case of a tie, the SGF members, along with staff and faculty members, will discuss and make the final decision. The committee also ensures funds are appropriately used and projects are completed as planned.