Special Projects Grant Agreement

This grant funds the “Activate Appalachia” initiative, a regional economic‑development program aimed at expanding technology and entrepreneurship participation across 18 Appalachian Ohio counties. Shawnee State University serves as lead institution, delivering mixed‑mode bootcamps, startup competitions, technology accelerators, leadership cohorts, and mentorship to K‑12 students, unemployed adults, displaced workers, and early‑stage entrepreneurs. The $1 million grant is disbursed on a reimbursement basis, requires a minimum 25 % matching contribution, and mandates extensive reporting, record‑keeping, and audit compliance throughout the two‑year term. • Program scope includes immersive business bootcamps, startup contests, and leadership development cohorts. • Target outcomes: 4 new startups, 12 new jobs, 16 high schools reached, and 12 leadership academy participants in Year 1. • Grant administration: Separate accounting, quarterly draw requests, audit (single or grant‑specific) and strict record‑retention (≥ 3 years post‑term).