The center has announced the first round of grant projects totaling $3 million that will support programs at 15 historically Black colleges and universities with an emphasis on agri-tech and the arts. The agri-tech grants will provide partners with funding to create real-world experiences to assist in the development of the next leaders of innovation in sustainable agriculture and technology within underserved communities through hands-on learning, community engagement, and a strong commitment to entrepreneurship. The grant programs for the arts must ensure HBCU students have access to virtual and in-person learning experiences in film/television production, music marketing, or fashion design.
“We were blown away by the innovation in the projects these institutions presented, and we are super excited about the tremendous expansion and exposure the students at these institutions will gain from their involvement in these groundbreaking initiatives,” stated Cortney Harris, vice president of impact and engagement at Propel.
The grant programs are supported by Apple Inc. and the Southern Company.