Join

Expand WIL at Your Institution: Two Opportunities for BHEF Members

BHEF is partnering with two national funders to support BHEF member and partner institutions in expanding high-quality, inclusive work-integrated learning. Both initiatives offer hands-on technical assistance, peer learning, and direct funding. Learn more about the initiatives and how to engage below. 

This information is relevant for BHEF's higher education network members. In the future, we will be seeking to engage our corporate and affiliate partners to co-design and implement WIL models that work for businesses of all sizes. In the meantime, if you are interested in getting involved please reach out to Candace Williams at candace.williams@bhef.com. 

Institutional Capacity Expansion Lab  |  Funded by ECMC Foundation 

This initiative helps institutions build the internal infrastructure, leadership alignment, and employer partnerships needed to make WIL a core part of the student experience—not an add-on. Two consecutive cohorts of six BHEF network institutions each will work through a structured design and implementation process. Cohort 1 is expected to run September 2026-August 2027, while Cohort 2 will take place from September 2027-August 2028. 

Participating institutions receive: 

  • WIL Institutional Capacity Assessment with guided debrief to identify strengths, gaps, and access and opportunity gap challenges 
  • Tailored WIL vision and action plan with change management coaching from national experts 
  • Support to design and launch a proof-of-concept WIL pilot 
  • Regular technical assistance, expert change management coaching, two on-campus BHEF visits, and one in-person cohort convening 

A sub-grant of $10,000 to offset team travel and participation costs 

Best fit for: Institutions ready for institution-wide change, with some existing capacity internally — especially those with siloed WIL programs, limited employer partnerships or learner access—and eager to convene and support a cross-functional leadership team to make real progress. 

How to apply for Cohort 1: Complete the brief President’s Questionnaire by August 14, 2026 and submit it by 11:59PM to wil@bhef.com.  

Cohort 1 dates: September 2026–July 2027 

Expanding High-Quality Work-Integrated Learning  |  Funded by Ascendium 

This initiative is designed for institutions who want to test shorter length work-integrated learning opportunities to expand partnerships with employers, including small and mid-sized businesses, and serve a broader learner population. Up to 12 institutions will pilot one of three models—micro-internships, industry-led project-based learning or capstone courses, or virtual internships—at the department level and participate in research to test the impact of these models. 

Participating institutions receive: 

  • A sub-grant of $65,000 for faculty time, technology, learner stipends, and travel 
  • Technical assistance to design and implement a selected WIL model 
  • Bimonthly Community of Practice sessions, including two multi-day in-person intensives 
  • Independent evaluation support and customized results reporting 
  • National recognition through BHEF toolkits, case studies, and webinars 

Best fit for: Community colleges, regional publics, and rural-serving institutions interested in testing a specific WIL model with small- and mid-sized employer partners. 

How to apply: Respond to the Request for Proposals by completing the application found here by September 15, 2026. Submit your application by 11:59pm to wil@bhef.com.  

Information Sessions: 

Cohort engagement dates: November 2026–October 2028