Announcing the First Generation Grant Program
Empowering First Generation Students and Emerging Professionals through Financial Support
Purpose:
The FGPM First Generation Grant Program is designed to support Milwaukee's first generation students and emerging professionals by minimizing the financial pressures of academic or emerging professional life. Our goal is to show our first gen community that they are seen and to reward their hard work and perseverance as they navigate unfamiliar life experiences.
Application Requirements (all must apply):
First generation: “The first student or professional in a community, family, or similar group to achieve academic or professional success within a unique level, or within a new industry.”
College student (any school) or emerging professional (graduation within the last five years)
Based in the greater Milwaukee areas
Has not received the Grant previously
Must submit a completed Grant Application Form and sign an Acceptance Agreement
Grant Amounts:
The 2026 First Generation Grant amount is a one-time grant of Five Hundred Dollars ($500).
Key Dates:
Application Opens: August 1, 2025
Application Deadline: September 1, 2025
Award Announcement: September 24, 2025
Deadline for Winner to Claim Grant (via Email): October 1, 2025
Funding Priorities:
Applications will be reviewed based on:
Applicant's intentions for the funds, namely how the funds can improve your first generation experience
Applicant's description of your first generation experience or first generation journey
Applicant's involvement in first generation community work, either through work, school, or other organizations
What does FGPM consider a good use of the First Generation Grant funds? Specific expenditures that result in an advancement of your career or career preparedness. Examples include, but are not limited to:
Attending a conference or trade workshop
Investment in technology or tools to further your business or daily work
Leadership training
Professional group, organization, or membership
Purchase or upgrade of business attire
Organizational tools (supplies, hardware, software, or subscriptions)
Academic books
What is not a good use of the First Generation Grant funds?
Personal or non-academic expenses
Recreational and or non-career development purchases
Investments
Consumables
Artificial intelligence subscriptions. For clarity, business technology and tools with artificial intelligence functions are acceptable uses of the Grant funds.
Re-gifting the Grant funds