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ITAC Proposals

The Division of Information Technology awards projects proposed by university community members. Successful proposals should aim at providing strategic enhancements to campus-wide IT services. The Student IT Advisory Committee (ITAC), composed of student representatives from many UMD colleges and schools, reviews all proposals and makes recommendations to the VP/CIO on how to distribute the allocated funds to projects deemed to have the greatest impact. (See some examples of recent successful proposals.)

For 2024, we are thrilled to announce that up to four projects will be chosen, and they will be awarded with a maximum grant of $15,000 each. To be considered, projects must include a student leader.

Proposal Guidelines

Proposals are due before 5 p.m. on March 29, 2024 (deadline extended to April 5, 2024), and should include the following sections:

  • Proposer(s): Full name(s) and affiliation(s) 
    NOTE: To be considered, projects must include a student leader.
  • Abstract: This text may be published on the DIT website if the proposal is awarded (max. 250 words)
  • Purpose: A brief and clear description of the objective(s)
  • Overall Impact: Eligible projects for funding are those that provide strategic enhancements to campus-wide technology services. The projects must apply to all students and expand access to technology for all students at UMD. Proposal writers must consult the University of Maryland and the Division of Information Technology strategic initiatives and efforts.
  • Significance: Does the project address a significant problem or a critical barrier that will enhance the academic technology services at UMD? If the project aims are achieved, how significant will the benefits be for the students?
  • Innovation: How will the successful completion of the project's aim challenge and change the current academic technology services? Does the project propose a refinement, improvement, new approach, instrumentation, or service?
  • Approach: Are the overall strategy and methodology well-reasoned and appropriate to accomplish the project's specific aims? Are potential problems, alternative strategies, and benchmarks for success presented? If the project is a new approach or is in the early stages of development, does the proposal include details on how the risks will be managed?
  • Sustainability: If the project requires recurring resources, how will these be updated and maintained? What is the life-cycle replacement? Sustainability may also involve reducing waste and energy consumption and making our operations more sustainable over the long run.
  • Student Interest: Does the project have the support of students? Does it directly benefit students? Is it a project that a department would otherwise be required to implement?

Please submit proposals online (PDF file) before April 5, 2024.

Final Report Requirement

Awardees are required to submit a final report that includes a concise summary of their project, outlining its objectives, methodologies, and outcomes. The report may include but not be limited to the following:

  • Achievements and Milestones: Detail the progress made during the grant period, highlighting any significant achievements, milestones, or challenges encountered.
  • Budget Utilization: Present a clear breakdown of how the grant funds were utilized. Include any deviations from the initial budget and explain the reasons for such changes.
  • Impact and Benefits: Assessment of the impact of the project on the target audience or community. Share any positive outcomes, testimonials, or lessons learned that may contribute to the broader understanding of your project's significance.
  • Sustainability Plan: Outline the strategy for sustaining the project's outcomes beyond the grant period. Discuss any partnerships, community engagement, or long-term plans that will ensure continued success.
  • Media and Documentation: Include any relevant media, such as photos, videos, or other documentation, that visually captures the project's implementation and impact.

The comprehensive final report not only fulfills the grant requirements but also contributes to the collective knowledge and success stories within our community.

Should you have any questions, please email itac@umd.edu.

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