Governor Mike Johanns has discretion over the Competitive Incentive Grants. Grant applications go through various approval processes with the governor having final funding authority. The Excellence in Education Council, appointed by the governor, is responsible for developing policies and procedures for the administration of the Fund. The Excellence in Education Council provides administrative oversight for the Fund and makes funding recommendations. The Council generally holds public meetings on a monthly basis.
Council members are unpaid volunteers, but have travel expenses reimbursed.
Each report shall include the number of applicants and approved applicants, an overview of the various programs, objectives, and anticipated outcomes, and detailed reports of the cost of each program. The Excellence in Education Council is staffed through the Nebraska Department of Education. Primary duties of the staff include publicizing grant opportunities, organizing the application review process, and administering grants which are funded. The Excellence in Education Council office is housed within the Nebraska Department of Education. The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Council, adopts and promulgates rules and regulations establishing criteria, standards, and procedures regarding the selection and administration of programs funded through the Education Innovation.