SME Chapter Funding

We're excited to introduce a new and improved chapter funding model designed to better align with SME’s mission and strategic goals. After years of success with our previous system, we’ve evolved our approach to provide chapters with more flexibility, enhanced support, and increased funding opportunities.

This new model empowers chapters to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and deliver measurable impact.

Apply For Funding 2025 Chapter Funding Application Instructions

FAQs

Q: What improvements come with the updated funding model?: A: The new model better aligns funding with SME’s core goals of Brand, Engagement, and Growth. It simplifies the process, empowering chapters to create impactful programs that foster innovation, increase member engagement, and strengthen the SME brand locally.
Q: Is there a limit to the funding a chapter can request?: A: Yes, chapters can request up to $3,000. The final amount awarded will depend on the project details, budget, and alignment with SME’s mission, as decided by the SME Chapter Funding and Awards Scoring Committee.
Q: Can chapters receive funding for administrative costs?: A: No specific allocation exists for administrative costs, but they can be included in the project budget if relevant, such as using a tool like Constant Contact to boost member engagement.
Q: What if a chapter doesn't use its funding?: A: Unused funds will be reviewed case-by-case and may need to be returned, or the chapter could become ineligible for future funding.
Q: Is the application and reporting process online?: A: Yes, both will be available online through a user-friendly platform. Chapters can create an account, save their progress, and easily submit applications and reports.
Q: How do chapters apply for funding?: A: Applications and reporting forms are available online through a streamlined system. Chapters need to create an account, complete the online application, and submit a final report of outcomes. Progress can be saved and resumed later.
Q: What projects are eligible for funding?: A: Projects must align with SME’s membership strategic areas: Brand, Engagement, or Growth. Examples include recruitment events, member engagement activities, social media campaigns, and enhancing chapter presence. For guidance, contact the SME Membership Chapter Development team at chapters@sme.org.
Q: Can a chapter submit more than one project for funding?: A: No. Only one project can be submitted per application. However, a larger initiative (e.g., a leadership series) can be submitted as a single project.
Q: Can a chapter submit multiple applications?: A: No. Only one application per chapter per cycle.
Q: Will training be provided for the new funding process?: A: Yes. Training will include live and recorded webinars, tutorials, and consultations with the SME Membership Chapter Development team. A comprehensive FAQ and detailed documentation will also be available.
Q: Will applications be evaluated using a rubric?: A: Yes. Applications will be scored using a standardized rubric. The rubric will be provided during training to help chapters in project planning and application preparation.
Q: Are chapters required to report on funded projects?: A: Yes. A year-end report on outcomes is required. This report also serves as the Chapter of the Year Award application.
Q: Will the CPAG process be discontinued?: A: Yes, by December 31, 2024. It will be replaced by the new funding process.
Q: Will chapter status levels change?: A: Status levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) remain, but the process will now be tied to the Annual Chapter Wellness program, which includes a member survey and health checklist.
Q: What is the Annual Chapter Wellness program?: A: This program assesses chapter health through two components: a local member survey and a chapter performance checklist. It helps identify strengths and areas for improvement, contributing to chapter status determination.
Q: What is the Local Chapter Member Survey?: A: An anonymous annual survey sent to members to gather feedback on engagement and communication preferences.
Q: What is the Healthy Chapter Checklist?: A: A tool to evaluate chapter performance in membership, leadership, finances, programming, and compliance. It aligns chapters with SME’s strategic goals and identifies areas for growth.

Resources and Example Applications

Contact chapters@sme.org with any questions.

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Resources and Example Applications