Local Section Member Engagement and EnhancemenT (LS-MEET)

Purpose

The Local Section Member Engagement LS-MEET grant program aims to strengthen and build community in Local Sections of the American Chemical Society. This grant offers funding of up to $2,000 for programs that enhance recruitment efforts to attract new members and strengthen communities in Local Sections. The funds can be used for various purposes, such as organizing specific events, ongoing programming, and purchasing technology or materials.

New funding opportunities may include targeted events for local chemist communities that are currently not involved in the local section, such as schoolteachers and industrial chemists. Alternatively, the grant can also be used to create additional events that bring Local Section members together beyond programs already funded by LSAC Science Café or IPG.

Application Guidelines

• Projects which incorporate innovative use of technology to enhance local section connections are encouraged.
• As part of the submission, applicants should make clear the target demographic and whether the requested funding is to enhance interactions between current local section members within that demographic and/or increase membership in the local section.
  
• Applications should state how the current local section goals and activities are highlighted as part of the funding request
• Where relevant, a project timeline should be submitted based on potential funding being awarded in July of each year. 

Budget Guidelines

• Maximum funding level: $2,000
• Funding should focus on methods to better connect local section members and/or increase exposure of potential members in the community to the local section.
• Applications should include specific budget information about the event and/or the proposed technology purchase(s).

Specific Budget Guidelines

• Local Sections are encouraged to keep food expenses under 20% and venue rental costs under 25% of the total amount requested from the Committee on Local Section Activities.
• Alcohol may be funded if central to the event i.e. tasting at a brewery.
  
• Memberships to ACS or discount to membership as part of the event is allowed up to 25% of the total budget. In the case of paying for standard or premium ACS memberships, these should be offered to only a select number of potential new members at an event and offering discounts to more potential members may be a better use of funds.
• Giveaways such as ACS merchandise is permitted but cannot exceed 25% of the total funding request.
• Honoraria or stipends cannot be funded under this grant neither can pass-through donations to individuals or other organizations.

How to Apply 

The LS-MEET application form details the requirements, which include: 

• Information and Summary Sheet (One Page)
• Full description of the project including objectives, plan of action, line-item budget, and evaluation plan (Two Pages Maximum) 

Also are required are:

• Letter of email of support from the current local sectio chair (or Executive Committee member if the Chair is Project Coordinator)  
• Letters of emails of support from co-sponsoring local sections, divisions, commitees, and or other community groups, if applicable

Deadline

Applications are due by May 31, 2024 by 11:59 pm ET.

Impact of LSAC-Funded Activities

A report following the acquisition and use of the materials or after the event funded under this grant should be filed no later than 12 months of funding being received. Details of events or funded materials may be shared by LSAC with other sections on the ACS webpage and social media. Submit a final report.

Contact Information

Email: lsac@acs.org