Sierra College Introduces Microgrants

November 17, 2022

Supporting Regional Innovation Through Entrepreneurship with Funding from Wells Fargo, Sierra College Foundation

Sierra College today announced the launch of the Sierra College Microgrant Program to provide seed funding and structured mentorship with the goal of empowering students to move their ideas into action, build a resourced network, and solve problems that matter to them. Students can apply for up to $500 as part of the program.  If awarded, the grant comes with faculty and mentor support for the duration of a 90-day sprint during which students will work to advance their idea and prepare to present their concept at a spring showcase event. 

“The creation of new companies is an integral part of a healthy local economy, said Sierra College Superintendent/President Willy Duncan. Microgrants and their connected support programs will empower our next generation of business leaders by providing Sierra College students the opportunity to bring their business ideas to life.” 

Student recruitment for Microgrants began October 1, 2022, and applications are accepted through March 1, 2023, and will be evaluated on a rolling basis. 

“Wells Fargo is proud to support this proactive program helping students grow their entrepreneurial spirit,” said Kevin Barri, Region President for Wells Fargo. “We believe in small business and want our community to have a path to fulfill their dreams!”

Eligibility 

  • Applicants must be registered Sierra College students in good standing for the duration of the grant process from application to showcase.  
  • There are no minimum credit requirements  
  • Students from across all majors/disciplines are encouraged to submit creative or innovative ideas that could be developed into products, services, solutions, businesses, and/or nonprofits  
  • Applicants are encouraged to submit ideas that are attempting to solve meaningful problems, improve lives or offer “a better way to…” 
  • Ideas can be at the earliest stages just a spark of inspiration through fully developed prototypes 

The Microgrant Program was announced in conjunction with Sierra College’s participation in Global Entrepreneurship Week. Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is a week-long celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation that takes place in ecosystems around the globe. Sierra College has partnered with the Carlsen Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Sacramento State to contribute to GEW events across the Greater Sacramento region.  

About Sierra College

The Sierra Joint Community College District is rising to the needs of our community. Sierra College serves 3,200 square miles of Northern California with campuses in Roseville, Rocklin, Grass Valley, and Truckee. With approximately 125 degree and certificate programs, Sierra College is ranked first in Northern California (Sacramento north) for transfers to four-year universities, offers career/technical training, and classes for upgrading job skills. Sierra graduates can be found in businesses and industries throughout the region. More information at www.sierracollege.edu