Maker Money

Maker Money

Do you have an idea for a new venture or innovation and need equipment, supplies, or software/services to get started? Receive up to $500 in prototyping funds to further your project!

First Round | Apply for up to $250 in prototype funding. Your application will be reviewed and you will be notified of the decision. If approved, the amount you request will be transferred to your student account. Recipients are expected to submit a project update within 4 months of receiving funding. This project update should include a relevant picture, short project description, insights gained, and any next steps. Your update may be shared as a blog on the TEC website.

Second Round | After submitting a project update, participants are eligible to apply for up to an additional $250 of prototyping funds! Students who receive this additional funding should expect to submit a second project update.

You must be a current, residential, degree-seeking University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign student involved in TEC programs and/or academics to be eligible.

  • Step 1 – Fill out the Request Maker Money form. Include details about your project, how you plan to use the initial $250, and the time frame in which you’ll spend the money.
  • Step 2 – If selected to receive funding, make progress on your project! Then, submit a project update report.
  • Step 3 – Request additional funds by submitting the Request Maker Money form again.

Request Maker Money

You may request Maker Money again in future semesters for either the same or a new project! To be eligible again, you must have completed all the requirements above for at least Steps 1 and 2.

The Technology Entrepreneur Center has lots of programs and academic options
to assist in your entrepreneurial journey. Refer to our website and newsletter for details
or reach out directly at tec-ilee@illinois.edu. We look forward to working with you!

Get In Touch