Funding Opportunities
We have two options and resources we like to share as potential funding opportunities.
Funding for a Mission-Aligned Project
Promoting STEM education and inspiring audiences about the universe is what we do, and we’re always looking for fresh and creative ways to do it. This funding opportunity supports those who have a vision to create something great and impactful. We can’t wait to see what amazing experience you’ll create for our audiences! Please consider applying for financial support for your next big project.
Projects should align with your state standards, the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) or the GLPA astronomy literacy document. Funding requests can span a range of needs from materials and equipment to professional services. Please contact the Education Chair with any questions.
To apply, simply complete the digital application. The Education and Executive committees will evaluate your application and provide a decision in short order. Don’t worry if your application is denied at first, our Education Committee is here to help you improve the proposal and submit it again.
Hosting a Week in the United States
The International Planetarium Society offers a grant supporting a visit to the US for a non-US planetarian, called the “Week in the United States” program. The institution hosting this visit provides a portion of the grant as a condition of the program.
In order to support this initiative, and make hosting more accessible to our members, GLPA will cover this “hosting fee” for members’ organizations that choose to participate. Simply connect with a non-US planetarian interested to participate in the program and, once IPS approves their application, the fee will be paid.
Child Care & Dependent Support
We strive to provide quality professional development experiences for all planetarians. Individuals with dependents in their care who face a financial barrier to participate in our annual conference are encouraged to apply for up to $500 for use either at the conference location or at home. In exchange, we ask for your help running the conference.
Examples of expenses we support
- Travel for a caregiver (e.g., family member, au pair, nanny, sitter) to assist with dependent care at the conference location
- Hiring dependent care at or near the conference
- A conference meal package for a caregiver
- Costs for any additional dependent care needed at home
Who is eligible to apply?
Anyone! Successful applicants are registered for the Annual Conference, passionate about space science education, and either work, volunteer, or are looking for positions in such fields. To ensure fairness, applicants submit their own applications.
Ways to help run the conference?
Recipients of the support attend all conference days. Their contributions may include (but are not limited to) presenting a paper/poster, assisting the Conference Host, assisting the Conference Photographer, contributing on a project, etc.
How does it work?
Successful applicants apply as soon as conference materials are available, and submit their application by May 1, 2023. Applications and decisions are confidential, and notifications will be sent by May 15, 2023. Recipients receive a check from the GLPA Treasurer mailed to the address specified in their application or membership record.
Tip: We recommend making your hotel reservation when rooms become available, even if you have yet to receive a response to your application. You can always cancel the hotel reservation later if your request is not supported.
If you have any questions, please contact the President-Elect
Conference Scholarship
GLPA is all about spreading the love of astronomy and space science through planetariums. We believe in empowering educators by providing them with professional development and resources to successfully run their institutions. The mainstay of our professional offerings is the Annual Conference. This year’s conference is special though – a partnership of several regional planetarium organizations into a single National Conference.
To ensure this opportunity remains accessible, we’re offering a limited number of registration scholarships in exchange for help running the conference. Review the details below and apply early!
If you have any questions, please contact the President-Elect.
Who can apply?
Anyone! Successful applicants are passionate about space science education, and either work, volunteer, or are looking for positions in such fields. To ensure fairness, applicants submit their own applications.
Ways to help run the conference?
Chosen applicants attend all conference days. Their contributions may include (but are not limited to) presenting a paper/poster, assisting the Conference Host, assisting the Conference Photographer, contributing on a project, etc.
How will the scholarship be awarded?
Chosen applicants receive a discount code to use during the conference registration process. This discount will apply to registration and meals, except the Gala. We strongly suggest making hotel reservations before learning about the award decision to ensure you have a spot. You can always cancel later! Travel and GLPA membership dues are not covered by this scholarship.
How to apply?
Click the button below and fill out the application form by ***. Applications and decisions are confidential.
