ICMA is looking to partner with public administration professors and students, awarding up to nine $10,000 grants to university capstone courses to help future public administrators advance economic mobility and opportunity (EMO) in partnership with an area local government. This program from ICMA, made possible with support from the Gates Foundation, gives public administration students the unique opportunity to conduct research, prepare an assessment or engagement strategy, and/or perform a similar activity on behalf of a partnering local government. Students will gain valuable research experience and enhance their professional skills and grow their professional network.  

Through this opportunity, students are also exposed to evidence-based tools and resources to expand their understanding of EMO indicators and interventions. These resources include the Urban Institute’s Upward Mobility Framework, Results for America’s case study catalogue, and Opportunity Insights’ Opportunity Atlas. The expectation for participants is to use these resources to inform their work for local government partners and strengthen their understanding of what EMO can look like across important issue areas. 

Student groups in Arizona, California, and Florida have participated in this program. At Grand Canyon University, students are partnering with the city of Phoenix for a focused study on food deserts in two underserved areas of the city.  Their project aims to assess accessibility to healthy food and mobility options for residents. 

California Lutheran University capstone students used their funding to conduct research on workforce development programs and barriers faced by the city of Moorpark’s Hispanic community. Through their research, expert interviews, and community surveys, these young professionals were able to provide actionable strategies to their client, the city of Moorpark. 

The University of Central Florida is partnering with Orange County, Florida, to conduct a needs assessment and research on digital access for the county’s most vulnerable communities. Their research also explores the affordability of broadband, geographical disparities, digital literacy services, and more. 

This program is a great opportunity for students interested in a future public sector career. Each group will present its findings to their partnering local government as well as delegate representatives to present at an ICMA-sponsored event in 2026. 

If your university is interested in applying for this experiential learning opportunity, refer to the Request for Applications for more information about this grant opportunity and access to the online application form. Individuals with questions can email emo@icma.org.