Student Mini Grant Program
The Algalita Marine Research and Education Student Mini Grant Program is offering $500 grants to support youth-led projects addressing plastic pollution. Here are the details:
Eligibility:
- Students aged 11-25 years old
- Individual Wayfinder Society account
- Completed required actions: “The Story of Plastic” film and System Mapping
- Non-family adult advisor (teacher, mentor, facilitator)
- Application submitted in English
Focus Areas:
- Zero Waste and circular systems
- Social Justice and Environmental Justice
- Philosophy, Social Science, and Policy
- Chemistry and Environmental Science
- Marketing, Business Communications, and Creative Media
- Community action, education, and advocacy campaigns
Types of Projects Supported:
- Reusable systems on school campuses
- Policy research or advocacy campaigns
- Cleanup efforts combined with storytelling or data collection
- Creative reuse initiatives (repair cafés, Fix-It Clinics)
- Education workshops and peer outreach
- Marketing or communication strategies for awareness
- Composting and school garden projects that reduce plastic
- Circular-economy learning opportunities or conference participation
Application Process:
- Sign up for a Wayfinder Society account
- Complete required learning modules
- Develop a project idea addressing root causes of plastic pollution
- Find an adult advisor
- Prepare and submit application in English
- Participate in interviews if selected as a finalist
