University Outreach Program

Proposal Period Opens Summer 2025

CLFP has a proud history of supporting university students through our scholarship and club donation programs. Food Processor and Affiliate members generously donate to these programs to help shape and develop the next generation of skilled professionals in the industry. 

CLFP is excited to announce an expansion of our giving program in 2024-25 to include increased monetary support of both clubs and/or special projects that relate to the food processing industry. Awards will be granted at a minimum of $2,500. This expanded program will be available to both universities and community colleges. 

Food Science Clubs  |  Engineering Clubs
 CLFP will award a minimum of $2,500 in funds to selected proposals from both Food Science Clubs and Engineering Clubs. 
CLFP awards approximately $13,000 annually.
Congratulations to our previous University Outreach Program award recipients! View past recipient list here.

Food Science Clubs

Eligible to Junior College (2 yr. accredited) Food Science Clubs and University (4 yr. accredited) Food Science Clubs.
Resources will be dispersed based on CLFP member review of proposals. Final decisions will be completed and approved by the Board of Directors in the fall and funds will be dispersed to the selected recipients in December. Recipients will be showcased at the annual Food Processing Expo in February.

Please provide a proposal, on your school letterhead, outlining your program or initiative that you're requesting finding for. The below listed bullet items, are some ideas to help you develop your proposal. 

Proposals period will open summer, 2025. 

  • Provide an executive summary of your club, the amount of members in your club, and your career goals. 
  • Outline how the funds will be allocated to support student projects, research, or initiatives within the field of food science.
  • Provide a general estimated budget breakdown of expenses including research materials, fieldwork, laboratory equipment, travel, etc.
  • Explain how these funds will enhance the educational experience and opportunities for students in the food science program.
  • Specify if the funding will support particular research areas or agricultural practices, and elaborate if applicable.
  • Describe any partnerships or collaborations with external organizations, farms, or research institutions that will be involved in utilizing the donation.
  • Outline how the impact or success of the funded projects or initiatives will be assessed.
  • Address any potential challenges or obstacles in implementing the proposed activities and how they will be managed.
  • Explain how this donation aligns with the broader goals and priorities of the food science program.
  • Additional information you would like the selection committee to consider when reviewing your proposal.

Engineering Clubs

Eligible to Junior College (2 yr. accredited) Engineering Clubs and University (4 yr. accredited) Engineering Clubs.

Resources will be dispersed based on CLFP member review of proposals. Final decisions will be completed and approved by the Board of Directors in the fall and funds will be dispersed to the selected recipients in December. Recipients will be showcased at the annual Food Processing Expo in February.

Please provide a proposal, on your school letterhead, outlining your program or initiative that you're requesting finding for. The below listed bullet items, are some ideas to help you develop your proposal. 

Proposals period will open summer, 2025. 

  • Provide an executive summary of your club, the amount of members in your club, and your career goals. 
  • Provide a general estimated budget breakdown of expenses including research materials, fieldwork, laboratory equipment, travel, etc.
  • Explain how this project will advance knowledge or practices within the food/beverage industry.
  • Outline the specific budget breakdown for the requested funding, including equipment, materials, travel, and other relevant costs.
  • Describe how this project will benefit students within your club.
  • Indicate if the project involves collaboration with faculty members or industry partners, and provide details if applicable.
  • Specify how you will measure the success or impact of the project.
  • Identify any potential challenges or risks and explain your strategies for mitigating them.
  • Highlight any relevant experience or qualifications that make you well-suited to undertake this project.
  • Additional information you would like the selection committee to consider when reviewing your proposal.

Additional Opportunities to Connect

FOOD PROCESSING EXPO
Interested in connecting with Food Processor members at the Expo?
     •      Download and email the completed questionnaire to Halle McIlvenna with your request. State the number of
            students you are willing to commit, and we will pair you up, and assist you with registration.
     •      Visit the Food Processing Expo website for more information.
SPONSORSHIPS
Consider having your club sponsor a Career Day for CLFP members to connect with students, and provide students with the opportunity to visit select CLFP member plants. Contact Krissi McIlvenna for further information.

Annual Funding Goal - $30,000

Help support the future of California college students.