Do you want to build bridges in your community?
Whether it’s an interfaith service project or a research initiative to address an urban-rural divide, the Utah Cooperation Cohort can help make it happen.
Thanks to a partnership with the Utah System of Higher Education and the nonprofit Interfaith America, the University of Utah is joining with seven other state colleges and universities to support meaningful work across difference.
“This is a great opportunity to start something small that may turn into a pioneering pathway for Utah to show there is a better way to celebrate speech and different viewpoints, backgrounds, races and religions,” said Geoffrey Landward, state commissioner of higher education. “We want to do it in a way that creates community, that creates partnership, that creates friendship and doesn’t breed resentment and hate.”
Funding proposals will be accepted through Oct. 2, with a priority deadline of Sept. 18. Each school will determine how to solicit applicants. The U is issuing an open call for all members of the campus community to submit their ideas for consideration.
Projects can take many forms. Research initiatives, curriculum development, internship and fellowship programs, service opportunities and community engagement efforts are all welcome, as long as they reflect a commitment to bridge-building and fostering deeper respect and cooperation at the institution and in the surrounding community. Grantees will also participate in a community of practice, supported by Interfaith America staff, to develop their own bridge-building skills throughout the year.
“ I very much view Utah as a pioneer in constructive diversity work,” said Eboo Patel, Interfaith America founder and president. “This means appreciating our differences and cooperating across them for the common good.”
Patel was a University of Utah Impact Scholar for three years and spoke at the U’s 2024 commencement.
The U will match funding up to $10,000 per institution for micro-grants at Utah State University, Utah Valley University, Utah Tech University, Salt Lake Community College, Snow College, Weber State University and Southern Utah University.
If you have questions, contact Nina Linchenko, a senior project manager in the U’s Office of the President, at nina.linchenko@hsc.utah.edu.
Informational sessions will also provide an overview of the program and an opportunity to ask questions. Office hours are for those interested in workshopping their grant ideas before submitting an official application.
Utah Cooperation Cohort Informational Session: August 25, 2026 from 12 PM – 1 PM
Utah Cooperation Cohort Informational Session: August 27, 2026 from 5 PM – 6 PM
Utah Cooperation Cohort Office Hours: August 31, 2026 from 10 AM – 11 AM
Utah Cooperation Cohort Office Hours: September 1, 2026 from 3 PM – 4 PM