The Propel Center, a global HBCU (Historically Black Colleges & Universities) hub, has announced $2 million in Propel Impact Grants to help establish institutions as repositories of research for global scholars, startup founders, policy leaders, culture creators and the world’s most influential business and entrepreneurial minds.

In a press release announcement, it was revealed that the grants are launching with support from Apple, which is working alongside Propel to help develop curricula and provide ongoing mentorship and learning experiences, along with internship opportunities. Support from Apple — through the company’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative — will give HBCUs tools and resources to pursue new research and learning opportunities.

“We envision a world where all people have access to the tools and resources they need to advance justice,” said Dr. Cortney Harris, vice president of impact and engagement for Propel, in the press release announcement. “This investment will help elevate the way HBCU students see and experience their place in the world, and we’re so thrilled to partner with Apple to help drive this transformative change.”

Apple is also a founding partner of the global leadership hub, which was first formed in January 2021 by Ed Farm. Through a robust virtual platform, on-campus activations at partner institutions, and a physical campus located in the Atlanta University Center, Propel will bring labs and technology to participating schools.

The $200,000 grants will be implemented within the 2022 calendar year. In addition to professional and financial support from Apple, each grant recipient will receive Apple hardware to support their research and learning, including a MacBook Pro, iPad, Apple Pencil, iPhone and Apple Watch.

The first round of Propel Impact Grants opens today. Applications are due by Monday, Dec. 7, and grant awards will be announced on Friday, Dec. 17.

To find out more information about the grant, and to submit an application, visit the company’s official website here.