MakerBucks

This program is open to current WPI students who are passionate about building new products, prototypes, creative works, research tools, or innovative technologies.

• MakerBucks is open to all students to work on personal, academic*, entrepreneurial or research projects.
• All current WPI students are eligible to apply, including undergraduate and graduate students.
• Teams will be given preference, though individual applicants will also be considered.
• Multi-departmental and interdisciplinary collaborations will be given preference.
• At least one student on the team must be a Full User in the Makerspace if the project requires Makerspace fabrication resources, especially for 3D printing-related efforts.
• Funds must be used for tools, materials, parts, supplies, software, or services directly related to building or testing the prototype. Funds may not be used to pay a third party to complete the work.
• *MQP, IQP, and course-related projects may be considered if there is a clear distinction between the existing project requirements and how MakerBucks funds will help the team accomplish more.

Awarded students and teams are expected to submit documentation that captures the project journey, including:

• A final project report detailing the build process, outcomes, reflections, and next steps.
• 7–10 high-quality project photos showing the prototype, build process, or final outcome.
• Financial documentation showing how MakerBucks funds were used.
• Optional videos, which can strengthen project documentation.
• Videos may be required if a written report or How-To page is not feasible.

Public documentation is not required for entrepreneurial efforts where the project involves intellectual property, commercialization plans, or other sensitive information. If this applies, please explain the situation in your application.

WPI MakerBucks operates on a rolling cohort model. Students may apply at any point during the academic year while funds remain available. Each MakerBucks participant is required to sign the MakerBucks Student Agreement and commits to the following:

• Attend an in-person Maker Studio meeting. If a meeting is not feasible, a halfway progress report may be required.
• Complete all required program deliverables, including the final report, photos, and financial documentation.
• Attend or participate in a Demo Drive showcase event at the end of the academic year, typically held in early April. Tentative dates are April 5 and April 14,2027.
• Follow proper reimbursement policies and submit eligible expense reports with receipts by the project end date listed in the application.
• Utilize Makerspace resources and support as appropriate for the project.

Submit an online application and provide:

• A short description of your project that can be shared publicly.
• Names and details of team members.
• A description of progress or achievements to date, if any.
• The requested funding tier and a tentative budget plan showing how the funds will be used.
• For requests over $200, a more detailed budget justification is required.
• For requests of $500 or more, applicants should clearly explain the project’s impact potential, team structure, technical scope, and expected outcomes. A short meeting may also be required on a case-by-case basis.
• A completion deadline by which you expect to finish the project and submit all eligible expenses.
• For MQP, IQP, or course-related projects, a clear explanation of how MakerBucks funding will support work beyond the existing project scope.

MakerBucks funding is typically distributed through reimbursements.

• Reimbursement typically takes 2–3 weeks to process.
• For 3D printing-related efforts, funds may be released through a 3DPrinterOS account balance.
• Students should not make purchases before receiving an official award notification unless explicitly approved.

Awarded students and teams may have access to:

• Makerspace support: Guidance on prototyping, fabrication, project planning, and tool use.
• Workshops and mentoring: On-demand support in areas such as Design for FDM, hardware-software interfacing, prototyping strategy, and project documentation.
• Equipment and expertise: Connections to tools, equipment, and experts across WPI. Additional training may be required.
• Maker Studio meetings: A developing program to help students explore ideas, find collaborators, scope prototypes, and identify pathways into MakerBucks funding. More information coming soon.
• Continued funding pathways: Projects may be eligible for continued support through other WPI programs when applicable.

To help you prepare a budget for your application, please follow these guidelines for permitted use of funds.

Allowed Expenses

Purchases must be made after the award notification and before the approved project end date.

• Makerspace services, including 3D printing, laser cutting materials, PCB boards, and other supplies.
• Hardware parts and materials.
• Software licenses, if they cannot be obtained for free.
• Other project-related expenses may be considered if not listed below. If in doubt, please check before purchasing.

Expenses That Are Not Allowed

• Gifts, alcohol, or items not directly related to the project.
• Team dinners, meals, or outings.
• Taxes, including sales tax and franchise taxes.
• Personal computers, tablets, or smartphones.
• Education courses outside of WPI.
• Legal fees.
• Coworking space rental.
• Uber, Lyft, or other private transportation.
• Outside developers, contractors, or third parties hired to complete the work.

WPI may be able to help students access AWS, Google Cloud, or similar credits when needed for product development.

• No Equity Taken: WPI’s Makerspace does not take equity in student projects or companies.
• Intellectual Property Rights: Students and teams do not give up any rights to intellectual property through participation in MakerBucks.
• Community Support: Funding for WPI Makerspace MakerBucks and related programs is made possible through the deep commitment of alumni and friends to WPI’s mission.
• Pay It Forward: If you would like to give back in the future, consider donating to support programs like the WPI Makerspace MakerBucks Fund when you are able.

For additional information, please contact our Makerspace staff at makerspace@wpi.edu