The Science for Public Good Fund: Empowering Science Advocacy for Equity and Impact

• December 17, 2024

The Science for Public Good Fund is a grant program designed to provide up to $1,500 to members of the Science Network at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). The fund supports online advocacy, digital community building, and other initiatives that promote equitable, science-based policies with a focus on addressing local impacts.

Who Can Apply?

• Applicants must be active UCS Science Network members or join upon applying.
• The Science Network values diversity, inclusion, and equity. Read more about the Code of Conduct.

Eligible Projects

Projects must advocate for equitable science-based policies, develop science advocacy skills, or address policy inequities. Proposals supporting community groups and environmental justice organizations will be prioritized.

Examples of Fund Use:

• Venue rentals, printing, or vendors for in-person events
• Online tools or support for virtual events
• Advertising and promotion of science advocacy efforts
• Honoraria for trainers, speakers, or community leaders

What We Encourage:
We prioritize proposals that:

• Reach diverse, historically underrepresented audiences
• Incorporate equity-focused goals from the outset
• Partner with impacted communities or justice-based organizations
• Engage scientists at minority-serving institutions (HBCUs, TCUs, HSIs, AANAPISIs)
• Foster advocacy skills and leadership for project organizers
• Demonstrate clear financial need

Note: Previous grant recipients can reapply, but new applicants are prioritized. Applicants awarded funds twice will not be considered.

Grant Recipient Commitments

• Projects must be completed within 6 months of funding.
• Recipients must document their activities (e.g., photos, video, blog posts) and share insights through guest posts, trainings, or other platforms.
• Recipients commit to active membership in the UCS Science Network for two years.

How to Apply

Applications are open until January 6, 2025. To apply, complete the application form.
For questions, contact Tosin Fadeyi at tfadeyi@ucsusa.org.

Additional Details

• Grants support individuals, informal groups, and formal organizations. Groups are encouraged to use a checking account in their name or work with a fiscal agent.
• Individual recipients may need to report funds as taxable income. Learn about obtaining an EIN here.

The UCS Science Network is here to spotlight and support your critical science advocacy efforts. Let’s work together to put science into action and create positive change.