The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) is now accepting applications for its BACKstage+ Grant program, offering secondary school theatre educators up to $500 to support professional development and classroom enrichment.

The BACKstage+ Grant covers eligible expenses including registration fees for conferences or workshops, educator training, travel and housing costs, workshop facilitator stipends, classroom supplies, and equipment or software used in theatre instruction. Five $500 grants will be awarded in both the fall and spring, with funds reimbursed upon submission of receipts or proof of reservation.

Applicants must be employed in a secondary school and teach any area of theatre, theatrical design, technology, management, or production. Activities must take place within one year of the award and cannot fund expenses incurred prior to the current school year.

Applications open Aug. 18 and close Nov. 6, 2025 at 11:59 PM EDT. Recipients will be notified in Jan. 2026.

To apply, educators must submit contact information, a resume, school details, a project narrative and budget, and a Professional Conduct Disclosure Form. Applications will be reviewed by USITT volunteer leadership and scored based on clarity, impact, and alignment with the program's goals.

For more details and to apply, visit below.