Strengthening Institutions Program FY 2026 Competition

The Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) provides grants to eligible institutions of higher education to help them become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students. The program aims to improve and strengthen the institution's academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability. The grants can be used for various activities such as purchasing scientific or laboratory equipment, constructing or renovating instructional facilities, developing and improving academic programs, and providing tutoring, counseling, and student services. The program has several priorities, including strengthening institutional capacity, supporting workforce development programs, and advancing the integration of artificial intelligence in education. Some key points to note about this opportunity include: * The program provides discretionary grants for a period of 5 years. * The estimated average size of awards is $3,000,000. * The maximum award is $3,000,000. * The program does not require cost sharing or matching unless the grantee uses a portion of its grant for establishing or improving an endowment fund. * The program has a two-year wait-out period requirement. * Applicants must address the absolute priority and may address one of the competitive preference priorities. * The application deadline is June 23, 2026.