Open Their Eyes to Graphic Communications

For the third year in a row, the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation will be awarding educational use funds to promote continuing education in graphic communications.

Who Can Apply

PGSF invites those institutions and instructors directly engaged in Graphic Communication, Visual and Design Technology and Print-centric educational programs to apply. These include high schools, trade schools, junior and community college associate programs, four-year colleges, and universities, along with Masters and Doctorate Degree programs. There are limited funds available annually to be used for a variety of purposes. These can include specific requests that will support furthering students’ education and exposure to print, packaging, and related industries.

Requests can include:

Grants will be awarded for equipment, student travel, continuing education and research benefiting students pursuing an education and career in the industry as follows:

• Equipment: grants will be awarded for up to $7,500.
  –Equipment purchased must complement an existing graphic communications program or expand the current curriculum. Small presses, bindery equipment, embroidery equipment, software for existing computers or parts for existing equipment will be considered. Please include a minimum of two vendor quotes with your grant application.
• Student Travel Expenses: grant amounts will be given based on a per student maximum amount of $500 each with up to 5 students per school event.
  -To qualify for grant funds, students must attend an industry conference or expo that is relevant to students having a positive experience towards a career in graphic communications. Examples are Skills USA, Printing United Expo, TAGA, Roll-to-Roll Converters, Adobe MAX.
• Continuing Education: grants awarded up to $2,500 per instructor.
  -PGSF may consider paying education expenses to an instructor for a class or seminar. The instructor must document on the application how the course will have a significant impact on the graphic communications curriculum offered to students.
• Research: grants awarded up to $1,500 per applicant.
  -PGSF may consider funding for novel research for gravure or roll-to-roll technologies for example, or other areas of print and graphic communications that providing a new perspective, would contribute to progress in the industry.

Restrictions and other considerations apply. A committee will review all applications and awards on merit and as funds allow as outlined in the PGSF bylaws. 

About Our Grant Program

As the main objective of PGSF is to support educators and students in graphic communications, we were again thrilled with the number of applications we received in 2023! We awarded over $90,000 to 23 educational institutions. Grants were given for equipment purchases such as small presses, bindery equipment, and color calibration equipment, along with funds to cover student travel expenses to attend print-related competitions and events. It is wonderful to see the curriculum being used to teach students the career opportunities in graphic communications and witness the excitement students have for the industry while in attendance at conferences and events.