UConn IDEA Grant Program Overview

UConn IDEA Grant LogoDo you have an original research question to explore, a creative idea to develop, or an early-stage initiative or service project you’re ready to launch? The UConn IDEA Grant gives you the opportunity to innovate, create, and explore. Take ownership of your ideas, follow your interests, and turn your vision into something real. With the UConn IDEA Grant, you can work on a project that matters to you and bring your ideas to life.

The UConn IDEA Grant fosters creativity, innovation, research, and service by helping students turn their ideas into action. UConn undergraduates from all majors and all campuses can apply for up to $6,000 to support a self-designed project. Projects may include original research, creative work, early-stage entrepreneurial ventures, service initiatives, or other innovative ideas.

Since its launch in Spring 2013, the UConn IDEA Grant program has supported 27 student groups and impacted over 490 students.

UConn IDEA Grant News and Events

Nadine Noaman '26, Uncovering UConn Muslim History - https://today.uconn.edu/2024/10/month-of-discovery-nadine-noaman-26-uncovering-uconn-muslim-history/.

“Senior’s Artwork Delves into Struggles Between First-, Second-Generation Immigrant Families” - with link to https://today.uconn.edu/2024/03/seniors-artwork-delves-into-struggles-between-first-second-generation-immigrant-families/.

“UConn Student’s Trans Photography Project Has One Simple Goal—To Affirm” - with link: https://today.uconn.edu/2023/10/uconn-students-trans-photography-project-has-one-simple-goal-to-affirm/.

Link to UConn Today article: Meet the Undergraduate Researcher: Sarah Marze, School of Fine Arts.

UConn is the Muse for Students Recording Songs Inspired by Campus Spots. Link to UConn Today article.

Link to UConn Today article featuring IDEA Grant Recipient Madeline Kizer '24 - Swap, Don't Shop: Sustainable Fashion is Coming to UConn.

Link to UConn Today article featuring IDEA Grant recipient Jasmine Morris '23 - Jasmine Morris Harnesses the Therapeutic Power of Animals for Underserved Students.

Puppetry Photography: Overcoming Loneliness. Learn more about IDEA Grant Recipient Elise Vanase '21.

The Next Generation of Conservation: A Short Documentary Film. Click the link to learn more and view the film.

Connecticut Agriculture is Showcased in UConn Students' Documentary.

Meet the Researcher: Valeria Sarmiento.

UConn Students Use Grant to Create Documentary About Yosemite.

Link to UConn Today Article. Cognitive Garden Takes Root at UConn Avery Point.

Margo Bailey '17

Eva Hu '18

Diana Abouchacra '17

Eva Hu '18

Louise Astorino Exhibition Article

Ben Piascik '17

Gabriel DeRosa '17

Elizabeth Charash '18

John Cody Performance Article

STEMTalk Launch

Calliope Wong

Stephen Hawes '17

Search for the White Rose documentary

Nathan Wojtyna

Cate Solari Exhibition Article