UC Online

Block Funding FAQ

General Information

1. What is the UC Online Block Funding?
   UC Online will provide $140,000 in block funding to each UC undergraduate campus this year. These funds are intended to support projects that align with the campus and system goals, such as fostering collaboration, promoting digital inclusion, and enhancing teaching and learning.
   
   
2. Why has the submission process changed?
   The new process centralizes the submission through campus liaisons to streamline coordination across campuses. This change ensures better alignment with campus-specific online goals and the system’s broader objectives, while also fostering system-wide collaboration.
   
   
3. Who is responsible for submitting block funding requests this year?
   Campus liaisons are responsible for submitting the block funding requests on behalf of their campuses. Previously, staff, individual departments or Principal Investigators (PIs) submitted proposals to UC Online.
   
   
4. How will the funding impact the UC system?
   The funding will support projects that:
   • Foster system-wide collaboration.
   • Promote digital inclusion.
   • Advance digital technology use.
   • Enhance teaching and learning experiences for students and faculty.
   • Help close equity gaps across the UC system.
     

Eligibility and Submission Process

1. I am a faculty or staff member and would like to submit a request. What should I do?
   • Faculty members are encouraged to reach out to their campus liaison regarding block funding at their campus.
     
   • Share your project ideas with the campus liaison, highlighting how they align with both campus and systemwide goals.
   • Faculty and staff are encouraged to reach out to UC Online for further information about these adjustments
   • Liaison will compile requests, reflecting strategic priorities and project plans.
     
2. How can faculty and staff submit previously unfunded projects for consideration?
   If you have previously submitted unfunded projects, contact your campus liaison to discuss how the project aligns with your campus plan.
   
   
3. If campuses will receive funding from UC Online, do we need to submit a Google Form in order to receive funding?
   UC Online will work directly with campus liaisons to discuss reporting procedures to ensure continuity in review and streamlined reporting. In addition, campuses will be requested to provide documentation regarding the relationship of online education with the campus’s strategic plan and where the system can support these endeavors.
   
   
4. What is the deadline for submitting block funding requests?
   Check with your campus liaison for specific deadlines, as these may vary by campus.
   
   
5. What type of projects can be funded?
   The funding is available for projects in the following categories:
   • Infrastructure support
   • Professional development
   • Research
   • Technology integrations
   • Course development

UC Online will provide additional funds for CCES operations and change orders, as well as for cross-campus instructional funding/enrollment support. Check with your UC Online Campus Liaisons for more information.

Funding Details and Requirements

1. How are the awards determined?
   Campus liaisons will submit funding plans to UC Online from their respective campuses. UC Online will meet with the campus and to make decisions based on available funds and the potential impact of the project on UC students, faculty, and staff.
   
   
2. What can I do to increase the likelihood of my funding request being funded?
   For guidance, contact your UC Online campus liaison.
   
   
3. Does UC Online fund multi-year projects? If so, what’s the best way to submit an application?
   Yes, UC Online may fund multi-year projects. Contact your campus liaison for further assistance.

Course-Specific Inquiries

1. For a course funding request, does the applicant need to be a voting member of the Academic Senate?
   For courses that are planned to be developed and offered during the academic year, applicants must be voting members of the Academic Senate since courses require Senate approval. Unit 18 lecturers may submit a proposal as a Co-PI. Reach out to your UC Online campus liaison for clarification.
   
   
2. Is a course release/course buy-out/summer ninth allowed in the budget?
   Yes, one course release, course buy-out, or summer ninth is allowed. It’s important to have department buy-in on the funding request. Reach out to your UC Online campus liaison for further guidance.

Reporting and Fund Availability

1. How quickly will the award funds be available for use?
   Funding to the campuses will be sent in Spring 2025. For specific timelines or questions, contact your campus liaison.
   
   
2. Are there any reporting requirements for funded projects?
   Yes, campuses are required to:
   a. Update their EVC-P budget
   b. Submit a final report, including an expense tab, within three months after project completion.
   
   
3. Who should I contact if I have additional questions about the block funding?
   Please contact your campus liaison for questions regarding block funding. In addition, you may also contact UCOnline@ucop.edu and cc Mary Wong.