Growing Seeds Program
Applications Open!
Applications for the 2026 Growing Seeds program are now open. Click here to apply.
Nurturing the Future of the Legal Management Profession
As Audrey Hepburn once said, "To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow." Every great idea starts as a seed, and with the right support, that seed can grow into something truly impactful. That's the spirit behind the Foundation of ALA's Growing Seeds Program.
The Foundation of ALA's Growing Seeds Program provides funding to assist ALA members and chapters turn innovative ideas into meaningful initiatives that advance the legal management profession. Through seed funding, the Foundation empowers creative, mission-driven projects that inspire growth, foster leadership, and create lasting impact.
We encourage applicants to think boldly and develop initiatives that aligns with the Foundation’s Mission Statement, address a meaningful need, and create measurable outcomes for their audience.
2026 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 the 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 comprehensive professional development opportunities, including ALA membership, mentoring sessions, and access to shared resources.
Get Growing
An annual call for applications begins August 3, with a deadline of September 30. Applicants will fill out a form 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 initiative that is representative of the Foundation's mission may apply for seed funding to launch the initiative.
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 that identifies the target audience, activities, implementation timeline, required resources 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
Growing Seeds recipients become part of a community of innovators and changemakers. Awardees are asked to provide periodic progress updates and participate in promotional activities that highlight the positive impact of their projects. These stories help inspire future applicants and demonstrate the value of investing in new ideas.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
The Growing Seeds Program is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: innovative ideas can create meaningful change. By investing in emerging projects and passionate leaders, the Foundation of ALA is helping cultivate the future of legal management—one seed, one idea, and one success story at a time. We look forward to seeing what you grow
