Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities
2027 Project Applications
REI offers support for three types of projects:
Co-Learning Plans
Co-Learning Plan selection is a competitive process. REI typically funds up to four Co-Learning Plans each year, and authors receive up to $5,000 in support. Visit the Project Overview page for more information on REI project types.
Co-Learning Plan Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December 11, 2026 |
| Notice of Award | January 2027 |
| First Draft Due | February 25, 2027 |
| Second Draft Due | April 1, 2027 |
| Third Draft Due | May 6, 2027 |
| Fourth Draft Due | June 24, 2027 |
| Presentation Due | July 2027 |
| Present at Innovate Michigan! Summit | TBD |
| Final Report Due | August 2027 |
Innovation Fellowships
Innovation Fellows are funded through a competitive award process to which only accomplished, dedicated individuals should apply to receive up to $6,000 in support. Visit the Project Overview page for more information on REI project types.
Innovation Fellow Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December 11, 2026 |
| Notice of Award | January 2027 |
| First Project Update | February 25, 2027 |
| Second Project Update | April 1, 2027 |
| Third Project Update | May 6, 2027 |
| Fourth Project Update | June 24, 2027 |
| Presentation Due | July 2027 |
| Present at Innovate Michigan! Summit | TBD |
| Final Report Due | August 2027 |
Student-Led, Faculty-Guided Technical Assistance
Technical Assistance selection is a competitive process. REI typically funds five or more semester-long projects each year, with support up to $2,500. Visit the Project Overview page for more information on REI project types, or watch our Webinar on the 2019-2020 Student-Led, Faculty-Guided technical assistance.
Technical Assistance Timeline (Flexible)
| Stage | Fall | Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Opens | June | October | February |
| Application Deadline | July | November | March |
| Notice of Award | August | December | April |
| Final Product Due | December | April | August |