The Open Textbook Pilot Program is a grant opportunity aimed at helping colleges, universities, and state education agencies create and use free or low-cost textbooks. The goal is to save students money, especially in popular courses or programs that lead to jobs in high-demand fields.
Who it's for: This grant is for colleges, universities, state education agencies, and certain Native American tribal organizations that want to develop and use open textbooks. It's especially suited for those looking to save students money in high-enrollment courses or job-oriented programs.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- For-profit institutions
- Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status
- Entities not involved in higher education
- Applications not focused on open textbooks
- Projects not targeting high-enrollment courses
What You May Need
- Detailed project proposal
- Budget plan
- Proof of eligibility
- Partnership agreements (if applicable)
- Letters of support
- Documentation of high-enrollment courses
- Sustainability plan for textbook use
Cautions
- Ensure your project targets high-enrollment or in-demand fields
- Nonprofits must not have 501(c)(3) status
- Focus on sustainable textbook use
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include public and state institutions of higher education, nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status, and other Native American tribal organizations. There are no restrictions on the types of applicants beyond these categories, meaning a wide range of educational institutions and certain tribal organizations can apply.
Overview
This grant is for colleges, universities, state education agencies, and certain Native American tribal organizations that want to develop and use open textbooks. It's especially suited for those looking to save students money in high-enrollment courses or job-oriented programs.
Likely Disqualifiers
- For-profit institutions
- Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status
- Entities not involved in higher education
- Applications not focused on open textbooks
- Projects not targeting high-enrollment courses
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to create and expand the use of open textbooks and course materials, particularly in high-enrollment courses or programs that prepare students for in-demand careers.
Total Program Funding
$7,000,000
Expected Awards
4
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- May 21, 2026
- Deadline
- Jun 23, 2026(10 days)
- Archive Date
- Jul 23, 2026
- Est. Award Date (AI estimate)
- Fall 2026
Application Checklist
- Verify eligibility as a higher education institution or state agency
- Develop a comprehensive project proposal
- Create a detailed budget plan
- Gather letters of support
- Document high-enrollment courses
- Outline a sustainability plan for textbook use
- Submit application by the deadline