Insights:

• Significant funding is available to support the use of digital tools like IMMERSE to enhance language programs in institutions of higher education.
• This guide details how to secure grant funding for using IMMERSE to improve World Language and ESL programs. 
• Reach out to our Director of Research Dr. Tricia Thrasher if you need assistance getting started.

Are you looking to enhance your language programs with digital tools like IMMERSE, a leading VR language learning platform? We have great news: there is a significant amount of funding, both federal and private, available to support your initiatives.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the landscape of available grants and funding sources. It provides detailed information on various funding opportunities and demonstrates how digital learning tools, such as IMMERSE’s Bridge the Conversation Gap program, qualify for these funds. With this guide, you'll be equipped to secure the financial support needed to improve your world language and ESL programs.

Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants Program

What it is: Grant funding to help community colleges develop programs that meet the skill development needs of employers and equitably support students in obtaining good jobs in in-demand industries. 

Total funding available: $65 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: These funds support the development of programs that prepare students for jobs in multiple industry sectors, including healthcare. In the U.S., proficiency in Spanish is a significant asset, especially in the healthcare industry, where communication with Spanish-speaking patients is crucial. By incorporating IMMERSE's VR language learning platform, community colleges can upskill their students and employees, enhancing their Spanish language proficiency. This not only improves patient care but also increases job readiness and employment opportunities in a diverse and multilingual workforce. 

Dollar General Literacy Foundation

What it is: Grant funding to support literacy and education initiatives serving individuals of all ages. 

Total funding available: $10.6 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies:  Funding from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation can be used to offer IMMERSE memberships to adult ESL learners in your local community. Public educational institutions providing direct literacy services within a state where Dollar General Corporation operates and whose organization address is within 15 miles of a Dollar General store are eligible. This presents an excellent opportunity for community colleges and universities to establish or expand volunteer programs and university outreach initiatives that support adult ESL learners. 

International Research and Studies Program Grants

What it is: Grant funding to support research, surveys, studies, and the development of instructional materials to improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields. 

Total funding available: $1.6 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: This program focuses on funding research on more effective methods of providing instruction and achieving competency in foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields. It also supports studies and surveys of the use of technologies in foreign language, area studies, and international studies programs. IMMERSE partners with universities worldwide to conduct research in these areas. Funding from this program could be used to cover the cost of incorporating IMMERSE into your research study. 

Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Program

What it is: Grant funding to plan, develop, and implement programs that strengthen and improve undergraduate instruction in international studies and foreign languages. 

Total funding available: $3.3 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: This program supports the development of initiatives that focus on specific issues or topics, such as international business or international health. IMMERSE partners with educational programs to offer targeted language training for these purposes, providing learners with the necessary language skills for business and healthcare sectors. Additionally, IMMERSE has been successfully used as a pre-study abroad preparation tool, enhancing students' language proficiency before they embark on their international experiences. Funding from this program is eligible to be used for expanding study abroad services. 

U.S. Department of Education National Professional Development Plan

What it is: Grant funding to support the implementation of professional development activities intended to improve instruction for English Learners (ELs) and assist education personnel working with ELs to meet high professional standards. 

Total funding available: $51.6 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: This program supports the development of curricula tailored to the needs of consortia participants. IMMERSE’s VR language learning platform can play a significant role in this area by offering customizable language training programs that address the specific requirements of different educational institutions and their English Learner (EL) populations.

U.S. Department of Education - Centers for International Business Education

What it is: This program provides funding to institutions of higher education in the United States on issues of importance to U.S. trade and competitiveness. The program funds centers that provide instruction in critical foreign languages.

Total funding available: $5 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: This grant supports the provision of instruction in critical foreign languages necessary for understanding the cultures and customs of U.S. trading partners. IMMERSE can be used to enhance these language instruction programs by providing immersive and effective learning experiences in critical languages.  Funding from this program could cover the costs associated with using IMMERSE.

U.S. Department of Education - Language Resource Centers Grants

What it is: This program provides grants for establishing, strengthening, and operating centers that serve as resources for improving the nation's capacity for teaching and learning foreign languages through teacher training, research, materials development, and dissemination projects.

Total funding available: $2.8 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: Funds can be used for research and dissemination of new and improved teaching methods, including educational technology. IMMERSE partners with universities worldwide to conduct research in these areas. Funding from this program could be used to cover the cost of incorporating IMMERSE into your research study.

Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA)

What it is: Funds to support programs that help adults acquire basic skills such as reading, writing, and English language proficiency. 

Total funding available: $668 million

How IMMERSE Qualifies: This grant is ideal for Adult Education and English Learner (EL) programs, including Welcome or Newcomer Centers, that aim to enhance English language proficiency among adult learners.  IMMERSE offers adult learners effective and engaging language learning experiences that not only improve their English language skills but also enhance their ability to participate more fully in their communities and advance in their careers. Funding from AEFLA can cover the costs associated with using IMMERSE.

Looking to secure grant funding to bring IMMERSE to your institution? 

We’re here to help and can support you in writing your application! Reach out to our Director of Research, Dr. Tricia Thrasher at tricia@immerse.com to get started.

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