The Professional Development Fund is a discretionary grant program of the Robert and
Patricia Switzer Foundation. Small grants are available to support and facilitate
the professional development and career advancement of Switzer Fellows.
The Foundation will respond to individual requests for professional development support of up to $1,000. Grants may be used for Fellow participation in conferences, professional meetings or trainings that will advance the Fellow's career. Grants will be made at the discretion of the Executive Director and will follow the guidelines given below. Requests will be considered monthly to ensure rapid response time for requests.
To be eligible, Fellows must have completed their fellowship year. Professional
Development Grants are for Fellows who are professionally employed or continuing
their graduate studies that focus on improvement of environmental quality and
conditions.
Requests for Professional Development Grants may be made to the Robert and
Patricia Switzer Foundation at any time using the Application form below. A preliminary phone conversation with
the Executive Director is advised before submitting a written request. Written
requests need not be more than 1-2 pages and must include the following:
- Name and contact information for Fellow, including email address;
- Title and Employer;
- General responsibilities of current position;
- Description of specific professional development opportunity for which funds are being sought. Include dates, location and Fellow's role at the event (participant, presenter, attendee);
- Explanation of how participation in the event will advance the Fellow's career and what is the "learning agenda" for the event;
- Cost of professional development opportunity and amount of funds sought from Switzer Foundation for this purpose; and
- Degree to which Fellow or organization will fund the Fellow's participation in the activity. Indicate sources of other funding to cover costs.
An Application Form may be downloaded here.
Applications may be submitted electronically to Lissa@switzernetwork.org
Grant awards will be decided within 30 days of the request and will be at the sole discretion of the Executive Director. Requests for support should not be made more than 90 days before the event. The aim is to be responsive to Switzer Fellows and organizations most in need of support for professional development opportunities who would not otherwise be able to finance their participation. Grants may be made directly to the Switzer Fellow or to their organization. Grants to individuals may be treated as income for tax purposes, so please consult with your tax advisor.
Recipients are required to complete a GRANT REPORT FORM at the conclusion of their professional development activity. A detailed budget report and copies of receipts must be included.