Across UNCW, Friends of UNCW grants support projects that expand learning, remove barriers, and connect students to real-world opportunities.

• Office of Military Affairs
  Supports the OMA Brunch & Learn initiative, connecting veteran and military-affiliated students with campus and community resources.
• School of Health & Applied Human Sciences
  Enhances students’ ability to respond to emergencies through hands-on training and First Aid certification.
• World Languages and Cultures Department
  Offers interactive storytelling and bilingual education tools for Spanish-speaking children and their families—strengthening language skills and cultural connection.
• Music Department
  Builds musicianship and prepares students to compete for jobs and graduate programs.
• Art & Art History Department
  Expands printmaking opportunities with professional-grade equipment in the studio.
• Mathematics and Statistics Department
  Supports the Math Circle Project, providing mentorship for teachers and helping middle school students grow as mathematical thinkers.
• Department of Environmental Sciences
  Advances community-based citizen science research and K–12 coastal resilience education.
• Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  Powers the Ocean Innovation Conference, inspiring collaboration and solutions for ocean preservation.
• Information Technology and Digital Services
  Expands Makerspace offerings with new leatherworking tools and workshops in the UNCW Library.
• Center for Education in STEM (CESTEM)
  Grows the Technology Loan Program, giving students hands-on coding experience and supporting teachers with classroom integration.
• EEMLS (Watson College of Education)
  Expands access to the Halyburton Nature Center through the Coastal Eco Explorer mobile app.

These grants show what’s possible when generosity meets purpose. From sparking curiosity in young learners through hands‑on STEM and bilingual literacy programs to empowering UNCW students with real‑world research, creative tools, and career‑defining experiences, each grant removes barriers and opens doors. They strengthen learning environments, expand access to opportunity, support student well‑being and safety, and deepen UNCW’s connection to our community—from classrooms and studios to coastlines and K–12 schools. Together, these investments turn potential into progress, ensuring that students, educators, and partners not only learn—but thrive.