Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities
REI offers support for three types of projects:
Co-Learning Plan selection is a competitive process. REI typically funds up to four Co-Learning Projects each year, and authors receive up to $8,000 in support. Visit the Project Overview page for more information on REI project types.
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December 8, 2025 |
| Notice of Awards | January 2026 |
| First Drafts Due | February 27, 2026 |
| Second Drafts Due | April 1, 2026 |
| Third Draft Due | May 4, 2026 |
| Fourth Draft Due | June 26, 2026 |
| Presentations Due | July 1, 2026 |
| Present at Innovate Michigan! Summit | July 16, 2026 |
| Final Report Due | July 30, 2026 |
Innovation Fellows are funded through a competitive award process to which only serious, dedicated individuals should apply. Visit the Project Overview page for more information on REI project types.
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Due | December 8, 2025 |
| Notice of Award | January 2026 |
| First Project Update | February 27, 2026 |
| Second Project Update | April 1, 2026 |
| Third Project Update | May 4, 2026 |
| Fourth Project Update | June 26, 2026 |
| Presentation Due | July 1, 2026 |
| Present at Innovate Michigan! Summit | July 16, 2026 |
| Final Report Due | July 30, 2026 |
Technical Assistance selection is a competitive process. REI typically funds five or more semester-long projects each year. 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.
2026 Student-Led, Faculty-Guided Technical Assistance Project Application.pdf
| Stage | Fall | Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Opens | June | October | February |
| Applications Due | July | November | March |
| Applicant Selection | August | December | April |
| Final Product Due | December | April | August |