UK Libraries is now accepting applications for the OER Grant Program. The application window is open until March 31, 2026.
The grant program supports the adoption and creation of open educational resources (OER) for use in UK courses. OER are class materials – including textbooks, assignments, podcasts, slides, videos, and more – that are free for anyone to use, share, or revise. Because of the flexibility enabled by Creative Commons licensing, OER can be adapted and combined to suit the specific needs of a course.
Available to students at no cost, OER increase access to higher education by eliminating the financial burden of traditional commercial textbooks. Since its launch in 2016, the program has awarded 82 grants across 42 departments (see a full list of past grantees).
To learn more about the program or to discuss a potential project, contact the Affordable Course Content Librarian at ACCLibrarian@l.uky.edu. This is strongly encouraged before you submit a proposal. Potential applicants can also watch a panel of past grantees sharing their experiences.
The OER Grant Program accepts applications for a range of project types and sizes. Projects must be one of the following:
In addition to funding of $500-$3,000 (depending on the size of the project), grantees will receive tailored project support from the Affordable Course Content Librarian. This support includes the following:
Submissions are welcome from all academic disciplines. Grant applicants must be full-time UK instructors (including faculty, adjunct faculty, and lecturers) who will be teaching a UK course between August 2026 and December 2027. Project teams of multiple people are welcome.
For in-depth information on eligibility, timelines, the application process, and project requirements, please visit the OER Grant Program page. There, potential applicants can also find the selection committee’s rubric and a copy of the submission form that may be used for planning purposes.
Two information sessions will be held early in the spring semester. Potential applicants are invited to drop-in at any time during the session to ask questions or get feedback on project ideas. Register at the links below:
If you cannot attend one of the information sessions, email the Affordable Course Content Librarian to schedule a meeting. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their projects with the Affordable Course Content Librarian before submitting their final proposal.
For any additional questions about the program or the application, please reach out to ACCLibrarian@l.uky.edu.
