Economic Recovery and Reinvestment

Investing in Innovation Fund (i3)

Program Description: The Investing in Innovation Fund (i3) supports the development of path-breaking new ideas, the validation of approaches that have demonstrated promise, and the scaling up of the nation's most successful and proven education innovations. This program is managed by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE).

Letter from State Superintendent Tony Evers (March 24)

Late-breaking information: USDE has announced winners, including one Wisconsin project, the Milwaukee Community Literacy Project, which requested $4.1 million. (Sep 20)

The Milwaukee Community Literacy Project aims to support struggling readers through activities in three spheres: school, community, and family. Applicants are the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee Public Schools, and the Wisconsin Center for Education Research.

Funding: The USDE says it is working to "build upon the momentum created by the i3 program," with details forthcoming.

Application process: Applications for 2010 are closed.

Information on the program is available at the USDE's Investing in Innovation Fund page.

Timeline:

• Deadline for Notice of Intent to Apply: April 1, 2010 (encouraged)
• Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: May 11, 2010
• Announcement of "highest-rated applicants:" August 5, 2010
• Deadline for "highest-rated applicants" to secure private sector match: September 8, 2010
• Winners announced: September 20, 2010.

Reporting: Reporting requirements are explained in the application package. In brief, each grantee must report, at the end of each year of the program, on the uses of funds, how funds were distributed, jobs saved or created, and progress in reducing inequities in the distribution of highly qualified teachers, implementing a longitudinal data system, and developing and implementing valid and reliable assessments for English language learners and students with disabilities.

Contacts:

• Scott Jones, b.scott.jones@dpi.wi.gov, 608-267-9269
• Thelma Leenhouts, i3@ed.gov, 800-872-5327, 202-453-7122

Links and Resources:

• Letter from State Superintendent Tony Evers (March 24)
• USDE Investing in Innovation Fund page
• News release announcing availability of application materials

Last updated on 10/14/2010 2:02:19 PM