About the Program
The Community Partner Recognition Grant Program is a pilot initiative by the Offices of Public Scholarship and Engagement (PSE) and Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (HEDI). UC Davis and UC Davis Health will distribute 10 to 15 grants of up to $1,500 each to recognize and support the contributions of non-university community partners.
The program aims to promote equity in community-university partnerships by providing financial support to ease logistical and financial burdens, particularly for partners serving underrepresented or historically marginalized communities. By supporting diverse voices and ensuring meaningful participation, the program fosters stronger, more inclusive collaborations.
These grants are available to UC Davis and UC Davis Health departments and employees who wish to acknowledge community partners engaged in collaborative activities. The program prioritizes reducing barriers to participation and ensuring community voices are meaningfully included in the university's work.
Funding Details and Recipient Responsibilities
Awarded recipients will receive up to $1,500 for their proposed activities. The university aims to support as many impactful activities as possible. However, not all proposals may receive full funding.
These grants are intended to recognize the contributions of community partners, reduce barriers to participating in university engagement activities and/or support activities that bring diverse perspectives into decision-making and university initiatives.
Expense examples include, but are not limited to:
- Gift cards
- Honoraria
- Mileage reimbursement/travel
- Parking
- Refreshments
Expenses must be in compliance with university policies, and may be subject to additional departmental policies.
Expectations and Deliverables
Grant recipients are expected to participate in program evaluation. This includes providing a report on outcomes and participating in focus groups and/or surveys. Additionally, community partners who benefit from grant funding will be contacted to participate in focus groups, interviews, and/or surveys.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are expended. All funds will be distributed no later than April 18, 2025. Grant recipients are expected to budget for funds that can be spent by December 12, 2025.
Eligibility and Award Criteria
Who can apply? UC Davis or UC Davis Health faculty or staff can apply for grants.
Eligible activities: Activities must focus on community benefit, highlight the integration of community voice, and prioritize equity and inclusion. Special consideration will be given to activities involving partners who work with historically underrepresented or underserved communities.
Use of Funds: Funds will be distributed via a university account to the applicant. All funds must directly benefit non-university community partners. This can be through direct payment via gift cards, honorarium, or check and/or via indirect methods such as providing refreshments, parking, mileage reimbursement, professional development opportunities, etc. For-profit businesses and government agencies are not eligible to receive funds. Funds cannot be used to compensate research participants or for event sponsorships. Funds must be spent in compliance with UC Davis and UC Davis Health policies.
We encourage applicants to attend Office Hours to discuss questions about how funds can be used and dispersed to partners.
Applications will be evaluated on several criteria:
- Clear activity description and anticipated outcomes, with emphasis on how community partner participation enhances the activity,
- Integration of community partner perspectives and how the activity is community-centered and mutually beneficial, and
- Budget and budget narrative, which clearly outlines the need for funds to effectively recognize and support partners.