One of the Commonwealth Institute for Black Studies' goals is to mentor the next generation of Black Studies scholars and make CIBS's work sustainable. 

GRADUATE PROGRAM

• Africana History - Students admitted to the Africana history program are awarded a 5-year CIBS Africana History Fellowship, which covers full tuition and healthcare insurance and provides a $25,500 living stipend yearly.

FUNDING

• CIBS Student Travel Award - This award is for Study Abroad or Conference travel. It is available to Undergraduate and Graduate students. The award amount is up to $1000. The application requires a description of the travel (study abroad or conference), a description of the project or program, a budget including any other funding sources, proof of attendance or acceptance to the conference or program, and how this conference or travel relates to Black Studies.  
• CIBS Undergraduate Scholar Research Award - This award is available to Undergraduates only and can be up to $1500. The application requires a brief cover letter and a description of the project for which funds will be used (no more than three pages, including references and a tentative budget). Upon the completion of the research project, a final report is required.

INTERNSHIPS

• Kentucky Room Student Intern - This Intern will work with archival materials in the Kentucky Room at the Central Branch of the Lexington Public Library related to Black Studies.