OPE Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education FIPSE – Special Projects (US)

Deadline: 03-Dec-2025

The U.S. Department of Education has announced the Fiscal Year 2025 Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) Special Projects Program. This initiative provides funding for innovative projects led by higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations, focusing on emerging national priorities to strengthen postsecondary learning, policy, and institutional capacity.

Overview of FIPSE Special Projects Program

Purpose

The FIPSE Special Projects Program aims to:

• Support innovative and forward-thinking projects addressing urgent national needs in higher education.

• Advance postsecondary education by promoting the use of technology, civil discourse, accreditation reform, and short-term program development.

• Encourage institutions to design solutions with national significance and measurable impact.

Key Focus Areas for FY 2025

1. Artificial Intelligence in Postsecondary Education:

   • Enhance understanding and use of AI in teaching, learning, and administrative systems.

2. Civil Discourse on College Campuses:

   • Promote respectful dialogue, critical thinking, and constructive engagement among students and staff.

3. Accreditation Reform:

   • Support innovations to improve institutional accountability, quality assurance, and accreditation frameworks.

4. High-Quality Short-Term Programs:

   • Expand and strengthen educational programs that equip students with practical, job-relevant skills.

Funding Allocation

• Total estimated funding: $167 million

  • AI initiatives: ~$50 million

  • Civil discourse projects: ~$60 million

  • Accreditation reform: ~$7 million

  • Short-term program support: ~$50 million

• Funding may be adjusted depending on the number and quality of applications.

Eligibility

• U.S.-based institutions of higher education.

• Consortia of higher education institutions.

• Public or private nonprofit organizations, including State higher education authorities.

• Each lead applicant may submit one proposal per national priority, but can participate as a partner in multiple proposals.

Application Priorities

Applicants must submit proposals under one of the seven absolute priorities, which include:

• Two priorities on AI integration in postsecondary education.

• One priority on fostering civil discourse.

• Two priorities on accreditation reform.

• Two priorities supporting high-quality short-term educational programs.

Conclusion

The FIPSE Special Projects Program presents a significant opportunity for institutions and nonprofits to drive transformative change in U.S. higher education. By focusing on AI, civil discourse, accreditation reform, and short-term skill-building programs, applicants can contribute to national priorities and demonstrate leadership in innovative solutions. Institutions with the vision to address these emerging challenges are encouraged to apply and shape the future of postsecondary education.

For more information, visit Grants.gov.