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Motorola is calling for applications for the 2009 Innovation Generation Grants, the technology company’s signature giving program. Innovation Generation Grants support programs that inspire and cultivate the next generation of inventors and innovators by making science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) accessible and relatable to students at any age. In 2008, the Motorola Foundation’s Innovation Generation Grants supported more than 90 programs that use innovative approaches to develop students’ interest and skills in STEM. Of the recipient programs – ranging from after-school and summer science enrichment programs to activities that promote innovative technology use and teacher-training initiatives – 43 percent serve African American students, 23 percent reach Hispanic youth, and 35 percent reach girls.

Educators are asked to enter their schools to win a Mobile Wireless Lab, which is valued between $41,658 and $41,957. Five grand prize-winning schools will receive 20 notebook computers or Tablet PCs, a projector, a printer, a Promethean ACTIVboard and stand, A Promethean ACTIVote pack and wireless access points. All Mobile Wireless Labs will include one Bretford mobile cart, one AverMedia document camera, and one Sony video camcorder and each Grand Prize will also include a $5,000 Digital Media Grant for online and/or offline Discovery Education products to be selected/customized by the winning school.

Tool Factory has partnered with Olympus Cameras in a search for student photographers of tomorrow. Students are asked to submit their favorite photographs online to become eligible to win the grand prize 8.0 megapixel digital camera with accessories, a Tool Factory software program worth up to $200, and a digital camera basics book. One winner will be chosen in the photography category and one in artistic photo manipulation. At least 10 honorable mention winners will receive Tool Factory software and a digital camera basics book.