2027 Cycle · Closed

MOBT Global Engagement Grant

The pathway to establishing a transformative and academically rigorous faculty-led program in Morocco or Portugal begins here.

Applications Closed The Story Behind the Grant
Closed

The application window for the 2027 MOBT Global Engagement Grant closed on June 28, 2026.

🛈 Note

Check back later for when the next cycle’s application becomes available.

The 2027 MOBT Global Engagement Grant was 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 was awarded to faculty members representing different universities or colleges who participate in this introductory visit together, led by an MOBT Global local staff member.

Grant Eligibility & Details2027 cycle, closed

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 faculty-led program during 2027-2028 or 2028-2029 academic year.
  • ✓ 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 06 to 12, 2027) – Morocco Track (June 20 to 26, 2027)

The Application Process

  • Step 1: Complete the online application by June 28, 2026. Closed
  • Step 2: Potential recipients are contacted for a virtual interview to discuss their interest and program goals.
  • Step 3: Grant recipients will be announced.

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
  • ✕ Fees associated with visa and entry requirements

Total Grant Value

Up to $3,000 USD

2027 cycle. Awarded to selected recipients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Destination & Application Process
Can I apply for both Morocco and Portugal?
No. The MOBT Global Engagement Grant is awarded to faculty members for one specific destination only. Applicants selected either the Morocco Track or the Portugal Track at the time of application based on their program goals.
If I was not selected for my first choice, could I be considered for the other country?
The selection process was specific to the country-track applied for. We recommend applying, in a future cycle, 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 airfare to and from their destination country (Morocco or Portugal).
What were the official program dates?
The Portugal visit runs from June 6 to 12, 2027, and the Morocco visit runs from June 20 to 26, 2027. Recipients must be present for the full duration of the week-long program in their chosen country.
Can recipients arrive early or stay later?
Yes. Recipients are welcome to extend their stay in their destination country at their own expense. Please note that MOBT Global is only responsible for logistics, housing, and transportation during the official grant window.
What are the requirements for the Portugal Track?
ETIAS: Starting in late 2026, 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: While not a government entry requirement, MOBT Global requires all grant recipients to provide proof of comprehensive travel insurance before the program start date.
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 local transportation within the destination country, accommodations with breakfast, guided site visits to potential student locations, and specific group meals (Welcome and Farewell dinners).
How much luggage can recipients 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 a recipient bring a guest if they 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 does the selection committee look for in a successful application?
We look 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 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 to 2028 or 2028 to 2029 academic year. This includes evidence of institutional support and a realistic sense of how this site visit will help you finalize your program.
  • 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 shares his perspective on the MOBT Global Engagement Grant, focusing on its role in facilitating academic study abroad programs in Morocco. He explores the country’s potential as a location for studying complex social and historical themes, such as the dynamics of Abrahamic religions as minority faiths within a diverse cultural landscape. Dr. Greaux notes that the local team’s regional expertise and logistical guidance were essential in helping him develop a structured academic framework 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?

Applications for this cycle are closed. Our team is happy to answer questions in the meantime.

Email: info@mobtglobal.org