SME Section Grants

About this program

The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) offers SME Section Grants to fund one-time, section-led projects that change public perception of mining, enhance member engagement, and provide professional development (examples: K–12 STEM/mining outreach, local professional conferences, community partnerships). Grants may cover up to 80% of project costs (sections must provide a minimum 20% match), projects must be completed within 24 months, requests over $500 require a detailed project plan, and funds cannot be used for ongoing section expenses or donations to third parties. Eligible applicants are SME Sections in good standing (one application per Section per year); all section leadership must be SME members, annual financial statements and leadership updates must be current, applications must meet the announced deadline (typically around July 1), and mid‑project and final reports may be required.