Student Organization Funding

The GIC offers two grants for those interested in fostering a deep understanding and respect for differences and to supporting a mutual exchange of ideas across campus.

Funding Type 1: Incubation Fund

  • This fund specifically supports newer communities that are interested in creating space and highlighting intercultural issues not currently showcased on Penn’s campus.  
  • Open ONLY to non-SAC-recognized student groups looking for sources of support to demonstrate need for their new programs. 
  • One-time seed funding to help student organizations establish themselves in their first year. Once the organization becomes SAC-recognized, they can register for SAC funding and other forms of funding. 
  • The following expenses are eligible for funding: food from approved vendors, materials, SEPTA passes, and other small event-related expenses. 
  • The following expenses are not eligible for funding: honoraria, facilities, membership fees, start-up companies, and technological equipment. 
  • The maximum allowable funding is $800 per request.
  • This fund will support up to 3 student groups per year. 

Application Review and Processing

Please submit a clear description of your activity’s goals and an accompanying budget. Student organizations should NOT purchase, order, or use personal funds until their proposal has been accepted by GIC. Any purchase or use of personal funds prior to proposal approval will not be honored by the GIC. 

GIC staff will review applications on a rolling basis and communicate decisions until funds are exhausted.

APPLICATION LINK: https://bit.ly/GICFunding

Funding Type 2: Marquee Event Fund

  • Funding up to 2 groups a year. Preference will be given to events and programs that are innovative and extends exposure to cultures and issues not regularly showcased and celebrated at Penn.
  • Supports medium-scale student events that bring visibility to a unique intercultural topic or community. 
  • Open to any SAC-recognized student organizations with a valid Penn student organization account number. 
  • One-time funding of up to $1000 per event per group. 
  • Student groups cannot re-apply for this funding if the group has already received an award.

Application Review and Processing

  • GIC staff will review applications on a rolling basis and communicate decisions until funds are fully allocated.  
  • APPLICATION LINK: https://bit.ly/GICFunding 

Financial Guidelines for all events

Food Catering: 1 Week Notice 

  • Once approved, if you require assistance with a catering order, please email Patricia Soria (psoria@upenn.edu) 7 business days prior to the event. 
  • We DO NOT accommodate requests for individual portions. Only tray for group orders.  
  • We only cater to Penn Approved Vendors 

Materials/ Supplies: 4-6 weeks’ Notice 

  • A request for a small amount of materials and supplies should be sent 4-6 in advance due to processing, approval, and shipping. 

Guest Speakers: 

  • GIC can provide guidance in helping to identify a guest speaker and indicate which forms to submit, however, the responsibility is on the host-student group to plan and execute the event 

Contact

For all questions about the Incubation Fund and Marquee Event Fund, please contact Kia Lor, Associate Director (lork@upenn.edu)

For campus partners looking for co-sponsorship, please contact Valerie De Cruz, Director (decruz@upenn.edu)