Higher Education AI Readiness Grant

The Higher Education AI Readiness Grant, solicitation number FY27_AIRGP, is a state of New Jersey grant opportunity administered by the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education. The program seeks partnerships of two to five New Jersey higher education institutions to collaborate on scaling AI initiatives within three priority areas: AI faculty development, student AI literacy, and AI planning and governance. A total of 675,000 dollars is available, with maximum awards ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 dollars depending on the priority area. The period of performance is from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2027, and all funds must be expended by the end of that term. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on October 30, 2026, and must be submitted via email to the designated points of contact. A complete submission requires a grant narrative in PDF format, not exceeding ten single-spaced pages, and a proposed budget submitted as an Excel spreadsheet. Applicants must designate a lead institution for fund disbursement and provide signed letters of commitment from the presidents or designees of all partnering institutions. Evaluation is based on project activity and operational plans, commitment and capacity, collaboration, goals and evaluation, and sustainability. Notably, facilities and administrative costs are not allowable expenses, and since this is a one-time funding opportunity, applicants must detail a sustainability plan for continuing their AI priorities after the grant cycle ends.