What is the Charles S. Edge Jr. New Speakers Grant?
This grant is designed to support individuals who are presenting at a professional conference for the first time, specifically at the MacAdmins Conference at Penn State. It provides financial assistance and mentorship to encourage new and diverse voices within the Mac Admin community.
Who is offering this grant?
The Mac Admins Foundation is offering this grant in partnership with MacAdmins Conference at Penn State.
Why was this grant created?
The Foundation created the grant to encourage first-time speakers to share their valuable knowledge, increase diversity at conferences, and foster growth within the Mac Admin community by removing financial and experience-related barriers. The program is named for Charles S. Edge Jr., who passed away in 2024, but was an expert at finding and encouraging new voices within the Mac Admins community.
Who is eligible to apply for the grant?
Applicants must be first-time speakers at a professional conference and have submitted a proposal to speak at the MacAdmins Conference at Penn State. Preference will be given to individuals from underrepresented groups.
How do I apply for the grant?
- Submit a proposal to speak at the MacAdmins Conference at Penn State here.
- Fill out the application here.
Do I need to have my presentation accepted before applying for the grant?
No, but you must have submitted a presentation proposal.
If I want to speak, but can’t think of a topic, what are some good ideas?
Check out the topic suggestions on the Call for Proposals page here or check out the Slack channel #psumac-mentors for some ideas.
The announcement says preference will be given to those from underrepresented groups. What is considered an “underrepresented group”?
This includes, but is not limited to, individuals from racial and ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
When do applications open?
March 14, 2025
When is the deadline for applications?
March 26th at 5pm.
Will I need to provide proof of my identity?
Yes, successful applicants will need to provide a form of photo ID to confirm their identity.
How much is the grant?
$2,500 per recipient.
What if I have money left over following the conference?
Invest it in yourself, with our blessings.
When will grant recipients be announced?
Late March/Early April.
When will funds be disbursed?
April/May (exact date TBD).
How is MacAdmins Conference at Penn State involved?
The MacAdmins Conference at Penn State has agreed to guarantee two speaker slots for first-time speakers.
How will I be notified if I am selected?
You will be notified via the contact information provided in your application.
Where can I find updates about the grant?
Updates will be posted on the Mac Admins Foundation website and through relevant community channels, such as the #psumac channel.
How will the grant change in future years?
In future years, the grant program will be announced earlier, in October/November, and the application period will open before the MacAdmins Conference at Penn State speaker applications begin. This is to help people who may not have previously considered applying.
Is this grant only for the MacAdmins Conference at Penn State?
Currently, yes. However, the Foundation is very interested in expanding this program in the future, and we hope to add additional conferences, pending funding. If you’d like to contribute to this program, please contact giving@macadmins.org.
I have other questions that weren’t answered here.
Send an email to giving@macadmins.org or reach out to @rebelati via Mac Admins Slack with any other questions!