MOBT Global Engagement Grant

Your journey to establishing a world-class faculty-led program in Morocco or Portugal begins here.

Start Your Application The Story Behind the Grant

The 2027 MOBT Global Engagement Grant is specifically tailored for faculty members from U.S. universities and colleges who are interested in establishing a faculty-led program in Morocco or Portugal. This grant provides faculty members with a unique opportunity to partake in a 7-day introductory visit filled with diverse activities and site visits. These experiences offer a dynamic showcase, presenting a range of potential options and resources for designing a successful faculty-led program that aligns with your educational objectives and aspirations. The grant will be awarded to faculty members representing different universities or colleges who will participate in this introductory visit together, led by an MOBT Global local staff member.

Grant Eligibility & Details

Eligibility Requirements

  • ✓ Faculty member at a US university or college.
  • ✓ No previous travel to your requested destination, either Morocco or Portugal.
  • ✓ Strategic plan for a 2027-2028 faculty-led program.
  • ✓ Official approval letter from a Department Chair or direct supervisor confirming authorization to lead a faculty-led program.
  • ✓ Available for the pre-determined introductory visit dates: – Portugal Track (June 20 – 27, 2027) – Morocco Track (June 20 – 27, 2027)

The Application Process

  1. Step 1: Complete the online application by June 28, 2026.
  2. Step 2: Potential recipients will be contacted for a virtual interview to discuss their interest and program goals.

Program Coverage

What is Included

  • ✓ Accommodations with daily breakfast
  • ✓ Guided visits to sites and organizations
  • ✓ All in-country transportation: Private and public
  • ✓ Welcome and Farewell Dinners
  • ✓ On-the-ground assistance from MOBT Global Staff
  • ✓ Airport pick-up and transfer

What is Not Included

  • ✕ International Airline tickets
  • ✕ Travel Insurance
  • ✕ Personal expenses

Total Grant Value

Up to $3,000 USD

Frequently Asked Questions

Destination & Application Process
Can I apply for both Morocco and Portugal?
No. The MOBT Global Engagement Grant is awarded to one faculty member for one specific destination. You must select either the Morocco Track or the Portugal Track at the time of your application based on your program goals.
If I am not selected for my first choice, can I be considered for the other country?
The selection process is specific to the country-track you applied for. We recommend applying for the destination that best aligns with your department’s long-term plan for a faculty-led program.
Who is responsible for booking and paying for flights?
Grant recipients are responsible for all international airfare from the U.S. to their destination country (Morocco or Portugal) and the return flight to the U.S.
What are the official program dates?
Both country tracks will run simultaneously from Sunday, June 20, 2027, to Sunday, June 27, 2027. You must be present for the full duration of the week-long program in your chosen country.
Can I arrive early or stay later?
Yes. You are welcome to extend your stay in your destination country at your own expense. Please note that MOBT Global is only responsible for your logistics, housing, and transportation during the official grant window (June 20–27).
What are the requirements for the Portugal Track?
ETIAS: Starting in 2027, U.S. citizens traveling to Portugal will likely need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization online before departure.

Insurance: Proof of travel insurance with a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage is a strict requirement for entry into the Schengen Area and for participation in this grant.
What are the requirements for the Morocco Track?
Visa: U.S. citizens do not currently require a visa for tourism or professional visits to Morocco for stays up to 90 days.

Insurance: While not a government entry requirement, MOBT Global requires all grant recipients to provide proof of comprehensive travel insurance before the program start date.
On-the-Ground Logistics
What is included in the “introductory visit”?
The grant covers your local transportation within the destination country, boutique accommodations with breakfast, guided site visits to potential student locations, and specific group meals (Welcome and Farewell dinners).
How much luggage can I bring?
To ensure efficient group transport in our vans, luggage is strictly limited to one checked bag (up to 50 lbs/23 kg) and one small personal item (like a backpack or laptop bag).
Can I bring a guest if I pay their way?
No. To ensure a focused, professional environment for vetting site locations and networking with other faculty, additional guests (family, friends, or colleagues) are not permitted to join any part of the program, including transportation or group meals.
What are the “Post-Visit Deliverables”?
As a condition of the grant, recipients agree to complete one of two activities within four months of their return:

Campus Presentation: A session for your students/faculty about the destination.
Promotional Article: An article published in a campus outlet reflecting on the site’s programmatic potential.
What if I cannot launch my program in 2027?
We understand that university timelines can shift. While the grant is intended for those planning 2027–2028 programs, your primary obligation is to complete the deliverable (presentation or article) to share your findings with your institution, regardless of whether a program is launched immediately.
What does the selection committee look for in a successful application?
We are looking for applicants who view this grant as a strategic bridge to a high-impact student experience. A successful application typically demonstrates the following:
  • Defined Program Goals: Your application should outline clear, measurable goals for your future student program. What do you want your students to walk away with, both academically and personally?
  • Location-Specific Rationale: Why have chosen Morocco or Portugal? We look for a strong connection between your curriculum and the specific cultural, historical, or professional landscape of the country you wish to visit.
  • A Concrete Implementation Plan: Show us that you have a solid timeline for launching your program in the 2027–2028 academic year. This includes evidence of institutional support and a realistic sense of how this site visit will help you finalize your itinerary.
  • Coursework Clarity: Your application should clearly state the type of coursework or academic credit you intend to implement. Whether it is a core requirement, an elective, or a specialized seminar, the selection committee wants to see how the “on-the-ground” experience in Morocco or Portugal will directly support your teaching objectives.
  • Strategic Integration: How does this grant visit work for your program specifically? We want to see how this visit will solve your unique logistical or pedagogical challenges, allowing you to return to campus with the confidence to lead.

Faculty Spotlight

Interview Summary: Dr. Eric Greaux

Dr. Eric Greaux discusses his experience with the MOBT Global Engagement Grant, highlighting its value in providing a unique and impactful study abroad opportunity in Morocco. He emphasizes how the country offers a rich and ‘exotic’ setting to study a variety of topics, particularly the Abrahamic religions as minority faiths. The professor praises the in-country support provided by the local team, noting their patience and invaluable knowledge, which helped him envision a clear path forward for a future faculty-led program.

Read the Full Interview

Faculty Impact & Testimonials

Kathleen Cunniffe Peña Kathleen Cunniffe Peña, PhD Associate Professor, Muskingum University

“Thanks to MOBT Global’s generous Global Engagement Grant, my summer of 2023 was a life-changing journey through Morocco. From enchanting cities to historic sites and unforgettable cultural experiences, this adventure left an indelible mark on my heart. It’s with immense excitement that I announce our upcoming Muskingum University study abroad program in Morocco, all made possible by MOBT Global. Thank you!”

Dr. Jyotika Saksena Dr. Jyotika Saksena Professor of International Relations, University of Indianapolis

“The MOBT Global Engagement Grant-funded Morocco trip was impeccably planned, offering invaluable insights for implementing faculty-led programs. We explored four diverse cities, admired modern infrastructure alongside historic sites, and visited leather, textile, and ceramic facilities, as well as a nonprofit supporting women. Our accommodations and meals were fantastic, and the MOBT team was exceptionally kind, attentive, and supportive. A marvelous experience.”

Maria Melendes Maria Melendes Professor, Carroll University

“My experience in Morocco with MOBT Global was extraordinary. It was my first time there, and the trip was perfectly organized. I was so impressed, I ended up staying after the grant period. As a U.S. faculty member, I joined MOBT Global’s faculty introduction program. They guided me through Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Marrakesh. Everyone was warm and hospitable, and I especially loved Fez, with its 9th-century Medina and artisans. I can’t wait to bring students to Morocco, fully confident MOBT Global will provide a safe and exceptional experience.”

Have Questions?

Our team is here to help you navigate the application process.

Email: info@mobtglobal.org

Start Your Application