Request for applications

The Citizens’ Institute on Rural Design™ will offer four local Design Workshops that address specific community challenges, and an online Design Learning Cohort program that will include up to 15 communities

Read the Request for Applications (RFA) Now!

All rural communities of 50,000 or less are eligible to apply for the CIRD local Design Workshop and Design Learning Cohort opportunities. Workshops should plan to follow local health safety guidelines and virtual workshop options are available. We encourage applications from nonprofits, tribal or municipal governments, regional planning organizations, and other community partners. We hope to hear from a variety of rural communities from a wide range of backgrounds, geographies, and capacities.

Review the guidelines and eligibility information. Submitted applications will be reviewed for both hosting a local Design Workshop and for inclusion in the Design Learning Cohort unless the applicant specifies otherwise. Read the Learning Cohort prospectus for more information about this program.

Be sure to scroll to “Application document” where we share the questions that will be on the application. We recommend that applicants prepare their answers prior to starting the application process, as you do not have the ability to save your progress while submitting. Your responses can be copied and pasted into the application form when you’re ready to upload.

Applicants to the Design Workshop are asked to upload a proposed budget. Below you may download a template and budget instructions: CIRD Budget Template and Instructions.

Optional supporting materials may include photos/maps, short videos, or letters of support. See RFA for guidelines.

Once you’ve decided CIRD is the right match for you, you can begin the process of submitting your application.

Important Dates