Conference Support Fund

At The Garage, we strive to remove barriers so that all Northwestern students can experiment with starting a business or exploring a new idea regardless of background. As such, attending a conference can be a useful opportunity for learning and networking.

The Garage Conference Support Fund is for Resident Team Leads. Qualifying students can apply for up to $250 in funding to cover airfare or hotel costs to attend an industry conference relevant to their existing business. 

Proposals are accepted during the academic year, beginning on the first day of fall classes until May 1. The grant is available 1-time per year. You must be a Resident Team Lead during the quarter that you attend the conference.

Process

Resident Team Leads send an email request to The Garage email with: 

1. The conference name and dates (including the link to the conference).
2. Budget of costs to attend.
3. Details about why you want to attend and what you are looking to learn.
4. Students must put significant effort to try to get a complimentary ticket or a student rate to attend the conference. The details of that effort should be included in the email.

FAQ

Who is eligible to apply?
The Garage Conference Support Fund is for The Garage's Resident Team Leads.

When can I apply?
Proposals are accepted at the beginning of the academic year until May 1. You must make the request prior to the conference, not after the fact.

How long does my award last?
Your award expires 31 days from the last day of the conference. 

What is the reimbursement process?
Once the Resident Team Lead has been approved for The Garage Conference Support Fund, the student will attend the conference (in the same quarter) and submit the reimbursement form and applicable receipt as soon as possible after the conference. A summary of the experience, what was learned and tips you have for students attending this conference in the future is also required to process the reimbursement.