NMU’s EcoReps is hosting a Seed Box Skillbuilder this Thursday, Nov. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. in TSB (The Science Building) 2812. Students can learn how to write a Green Fund Proposal, have the opportunity to submit their sustainable ideas to EcoReps and potentially see it come to life at NMU.

“The event will be fairly hands-on and interactive,” said Cece Hogan, executive director of EcoReps. “We highly recommend that students who are curious about the Green Fund Proposal process attend this event.”

EcoReps will be giving a presentation on the Green Fund, and attendees will be given the opportunity to submit an idea for the chance to win a free Superior Culture Growler, Hogan said.

“The Seed Box was created to act as a smaller, less committed form of the Green Fund Proposal,” Hogan said.

For the proposal, students create a budget and do in-depth research about their idea. The Seed Box is more feedback-based for sustainable ideas, Hogan said.

“It gives EcoReps an idea of what NMU students are passionate about seeing on campus, and what proposals we can focus our energy on to turn into projects,” Hogan said. “It’s important for students to write Green Fund Proposals because we have been given the opportunity to use funding for student-generated ideas.”  

The Green Fund closes on Nov. 18 at 11:59 p.m. and reopens Saturday, April 22, 2023, on Earth Day. Any interested students should submit their ideas before then.

EcoReps has already seen the first round of proposals come to life, including the beekeeping program, clover lawn, solar panels at the SHINE Building and a rain garden on the Academic Mall. 

“Our ideas matter and they are completely attainable thanks to the Green Fund,” Hogan said.

Find more information about EcoReps and upcoming events on their webpage or via Instagram @nmuecoreps.