Request for Proposals: Understanding Postsecondary Students’ Perspectives on Basic Needs Insecurity – Apply by Mar 6

Posted by Ithaka S+R on February 10, 2026

Our new multi-year research initiative funded by ECMC Foundation, Understanding Postsecondary Students’ Perspectives on Basic Needs Insecurity, seeks to better understand how undergraduate students define and experience basic needs insecurity, and how those perspectives shape help-seeking, trust, and engagement with institutional and public benefits support. By centering student voices, the research will generate practical insights to help institutions strengthen communication, outreach, and support strategies related to basic needs.

We are inviting 10-15 two- and four-year colleges and universities to participate in a national cohort, representing a range of institutional contexts and stages of basic needs support. Each participating institution will also receive a $5,000 subgrant towards institutional engagement in the project.

To learn more, see our website for more details on the project and RFP, and register to join us for an information session on February 10 at 2:00 PM.

The application deadline is Friday, March 6, 2026.

Questions? Contact Liz Looker, Senior Program Manager, at elizabeth.looker@ithaka.org.