Growing Seeds Program
Nurturing the Future of the Legal Management Profession
Audrey Hepburn said that “to plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” To grow a seed means nurturing it through the various stages of development until it blossoms into maturity. That’s the spirit behind the Foundation of ALA’s new Growing Seeds Program.
This program provides financial support (seed money) to members and chapters aiming to transform innovative ideas into impactful contributions to the legal management profession. Applicants are encouraged to be creative and design a project or initiative that aligns with the Foundation’s Mission Statement, resonates with your target audience and achieves a clear purpose.
2025 Growing Seeds Recipients
Thank you to all who submitted applications to our new Growing Seeds initiative. This year's recipients include Kevin S. Lee, J.D., M.Div., FMP and the Golden Gate Chapter.
- ALA Member Kevin S. Lee, J.D., M.Div., FMP created a project titled, “Pathways to Leadership: Bridging Paralegal Studies to Legal Administration.” This initiative aims to build a talent pipeline by connecting students in De Anza College’s Paralegal Studies Program with experienced legal administrators from the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) - Silicon Valley Chapter based in California. Through mentorship, exposure and professional development, the project will encourage students to consider careers in legal management and prepare them to become future leaders in the legal profession.
- The Golden Gate Chapter is developing Bridge to the Future Scholarship Program to support students from underserved and underrepresented communities in San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area. The program seeks to promote awareness of the legal administration profession and foster a pipeline for future chapter membership and leadership. The scholarship offers a comprehensive opportunity for professional development, including ALA membership, mentoring sessions and access to shared resources.
Get Growing
An annual call for applications takes place starting August 1 with an application deadline of September 30. Applicants will fill out a form that will be available during the call window. Recipients will be selected and notified by November 1. Funds will be distributed in the first quarter of the following year.
Any ALA chapter or individual member in good standing who is actively developing an inclusive, formalized project or initiative that is representative of the Foundation’s mission may apply to receive seed money to launch the initiative.
Initiatives may not duplicate other programs currently offered through ALA. Seed money awarded will not exceed $1,000 and may be less contingent upon the number of applications received and approved for funding.
Application Requirements
Here’s an overview of what you’ll need when applying:
- Chapter Name/Independent Member Name
- Chapter President and Contact Information (if applicable)
- Primary Contact’s Name and Contact Information
- Project/Initiative Plan: Describe the project and its purpose. Outline a detailed plan identifying the target audience, activities, implementation timeline, resources required for successful implementation and how the initiative will advance and reflect the Foundation’s mission.
- Goals/Objectives/Outcomes: Define the goals, measurable objectives and anticipated outcomes aligned with the objectives, demonstrating the impact your project will have on those it is designed to serve.
- Needs/Problems/Issues Statement: Articulate the specific needs, problems and/or issues your project aims to address, emphasizing their significance and the gap your project is designed to fill.
- Evaluation Plan: Describe how you will assess the effectiveness and impact of your project or program.
- Budget: Present a detailed and realistic budget that accurately reflects the financial resources required to support your project and how you plan to use funds that are granted by the Growing Seeds program.
- Sustained Impact: Describe the desired or anticipated impact your project will have on the target audience, including the potential benefits for the audience, ensuring sustainability beyond the initial seed money award.
Expectations of Recipients
We want to share all the impactful work you are doing with your seed money! As part of the program, recipients are expected to check in quarterly with project updates so we can stay connected and support your progress. Plus, you’ll help us spread the word by participating in promotional activities about the Growing Seeds Program (e.g., providing testimonials, being photographed for Foundation media channels).
Looking Ahead with Purpose
The Growing Seeds Program is rooted in the belief that ideas, big or small, can lead to meaningful change. By supporting creative, mission-driven projects, we are investing in the future of legal management. We look forward to seeing the impact your vision will create.
