Every student deserves a clear path to college—and that journey starts long before senior year. GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) plants the seeds of college ambition in middle and high school students, and we’re proud to support their mission with quality branded merchandise that inspires and equips the next generation of scholars.
What is GEAR UP?
GEAR UP is a federally funded discretionary grant program designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Unlike programs that begin in college, GEAR UP starts early—serving students from 6th or 7th grade through high school graduation and beyond.
GEAR UP’s Mission: “Real Choices for Youth”
The program provides:
- Academic tutoring and mentoring
- College campus visits and exposure
- Financial aid counseling
- Career exploration activities
- Professional development for teachers
- Parent involvement initiatives
- Scholarship assistance
With over 600,000 students served nationwide, GEAR UP partnerships are transforming communities and opening doors to higher education for students who might not otherwise see college as an attainable goal.
Why Branded Merchandise Matters for GEAR UP
When you’re working with middle and high school students, engagement is everything. Quality promotional products serve as:
Tangible Reminders of Possibility Every time a student uses their GEAR UP tumbler or wears their GEAR UP hoodie, they’re reminded that they’re part of something bigger—a community that believes in their potential.
Program Pride and Identity Branded merchandise creates a sense of belonging. Students become ambassadors for the program, sparking conversations with peers who might also benefit from GEAR UP services.
Practical Support From drinkware that keeps students hydrated during long study sessions to apparel that keeps them comfortable on college visits, these products serve real needs.
Lasting Impact Quality items last throughout a student’s middle school, high school, and even college years—serving as a constant reminder of the support system that helped them get there.
The Collection: Drinkware, Bags, and Apparel That Inspires
Drinkware Collection
1. 18 oz Palermo – Powder (Matte White)
The perfect everyday companion for students on the go.
- Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for 24 hours, hot for 12 hours
- Splash-proof sliding lid
- Fits most car cup holders
- Sleek white finish with vibrant GEAR UP “Real Choices for Youth” logo
- Ideal for: Water, coffee, smoothies—classroom to extracurriculars
2. Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState™ Tumbler 30oz (Matte Black)
For students who need serious hydration throughout their busy days.
- Extra-large capacity with ergonomic handle
- Stainless steel construction with powder-coated matte finish
- Includes straw for easy sipping
- Bold GEAR UP branding stands out
- Perfect for: All-day hydration, sports practice, long study sessions
3. The Viking Collection™ 20 oz Nova Tumbler (Clear/Stainless)
A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on style.
- Clear acrylic body with stainless steel accents
- Screw-on lid with secure seal
- BPA-free construction
- Eye-catching GEAR UP logo clearly visible
- Great for: Mass distributions, welcome kits, event giveaways
Apparel and Bags Collection
4. Classic Backpack (Heather Gray)
The everyday essential with timeless style.
- Heather gray fabric with modern aesthetic
- Large main compartment for books and laptop
- Front zippered pocket with organization panel
- Padded adjustable shoulder straps
- Metal zipper with rope pulls for durability
- GEAR UP “Real Choices for Youth” logo embroidered on front
- Sleek, minimalist design
- Perfect for: Daily classes, study sessions, campus life, casual use
5. Vertex® Equinox Laptop Backpack (Gunmetal Grey)
Heavy-duty backpack built for active students.
- Durable water-resistant fabric
- Ergonomic design with contoured back panel
- Multiple external compression straps
- Mesh side pockets for water bottles
- Top-loading main compartment with security closure
- Reinforced base for extra durability
- VTX branding with GEAR UP logo
- Professional gray and black colorway
- Ideal for: Sports teams, outdoor activities, heavy loads, travel, college visits
6. Varsity Jacket (Forest Green & Cream)
Premium recognition piece that makes a statement.
- Classic letterman-style varsity jacket
- Forest green wool-blend body with cream leather sleeves
- Snap-button front closure
- Ribbed collar, cuffs, and waistband with stripe detail
- Slash pockets with cream trim
- GEAR UP logo embroidered on chest and back
- Custom number “18” on sleeve (customizable)
- Quilted interior lining
- Unisex sizing available
- Perfect for: Senior awards, graduation gifts, program ambassadors, special recognition, leadership teams
7. Large Sport Backpack (Black & White)
The ultimate student essential for carrying books, laptops, and gear.
- Durable polyester construction with contrasting white panels
- Multiple compartments for organized storage
- Padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort
- Mesh side pockets for water bottles
- Front accessory pocket for quick-access items
- Reinforced bottom panel for durability
- GEAR UP “Real Choices for Youth” logo prominently displayed
- Perfect for: Daily school use, college visits, sports practice, weekend trips
8. Classic Polo Shirt (White)
Professional attire for college visits and program events.
- 100% cotton pique knit for comfort and breathability
- Three-button placket with ribbed collar
- GEAR UP logo embroidered or heat-pressed on left chest
- Clean, professional look
- Perfect for: College tours, career days, program presentations, interviews
9. Pullover Hoodie (Black)
The go-to casual staple for students year-round.
- Heavyweight fleece construction
- Front kangaroo pocket
- Drawstring hood for adjustable fit
- GEAR UP branding on front
- Classic black color that goes with everything
- Ideal for: Everyday wear, outdoor events, showing program pride
10. Full-Zip Hoodie (Heather Gray)
Versatile layering piece with front and back branding.
- Soft cotton/polyester blend
- Full-length YKK zipper
- Split kangaroo pockets
- GEAR UP logo on chest AND back for maximum visibility
- Athletic heather gray color
- Great for: Layering, active wear, representing the program campus-wide
The Power of the GEAR UP Brand
The GEAR UP logo—featuring a gear symbol encircled by figures representing community and support, with the tagline “Real Choices for Youth”—is more than just branding. It’s a promise. The bold red and blue color scheme is patriotic, energetic, and memorable.
When students see this logo on their gear, they’re reminded that:
- Their education matters
- College is within reach
- A community supports their dreams
- They have real choices for their future
Product Applications Across GEAR UP Activities
Student Incentives and Recognition
Reward academic achievement, perfect attendance, or program participation with quality merchandise students actually want to use.
College Visit Kits
Send students on campus tours equipped with GEAR UP polos and tumblers—they’ll look professional and stay hydrated while exploring their future.
Welcome Packages
Welcome new cohorts with starter kits featuring drinkware and apparel that immediately create a sense of belonging.
Family Engagement Events
Provide branded items at parent nights and family college preparation workshops to extend program visibility to homes.
Fundraising and Community Awareness
Sell or distribute GEAR UP merchandise at community events to raise awareness and funds for program activities.
Senior Year Celebrations
Honor graduating seniors with premium items as they transition to college—a lasting memento of the program that helped get them there.
Staff and Volunteer Appreciation
Equip your team with professional GEAR UP apparel for easy identification at events and to show appreciation for their dedication.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Program
Budget Considerations:
- Sport backpack, acrylic tumblers, and polo shirts: Cost-effective for large distributions
- Classic backpack, standard hoodies, and stainless tumblers: Mid-range options with excellent perceived value
- VTX performance backpack, varsity jackets, and premium handled tumblers: Higher-end rewards for special achievements
Age Appropriateness:
- Middle school students: Colorful drinkware, sport backpacks, casual hoodies
- High school students: Professional polos for college visits, statement tumblers, full-zip hoodies, classic backpacks, VTX performance backpacks
- Graduating seniors: Premium items like varsity jackets, Stanley Quenchers, VTX backpacks as graduation gifts
Seasonal Planning:
- Fall/Winter: Focus on apparel (hoodies, long-sleeve polos, varsity jackets)
- Spring/Summer: Emphasize drinkware for warm weather
- Back to School: Mix of backpacks, drinkware, and casual apparel for comprehensive welcome kits
Why Partner with KCP Supplies?
At KCP Supplies, we understand the unique needs of federally funded education programs:
✓ Experience with Federal Programs: We’ve worked with TRIO, GEAR UP, and other Department of Education initiatives
✓ Budget-Conscious Solutions: We help you maximize impact within grant budget constraints
✓ Quality Assurance: Every product reflects well on your program and serves students reliably
✓ Custom Branding Expertise: We ensure logos are crisp, colors are accurate, and placement is optimal
✓ Timely Delivery: We understand your program timelines and event schedules
✓ Comprehensive Product Range: From drinkware to apparel to school supplies, we’re your one-stop shop
Real Impact: Stories from the Field
GEAR UP coordinators tell us that branded merchandise:
- Increases student engagement in program activities
- Creates excitement around college preparation events
- Helps students feel connected to a college-going culture
- Provides conversation starters that spread awareness
- Gives students tangible items they’re proud to own and use
One program director shared: “When our students wear their GEAR UP hoodies around campus, other students ask questions. It’s opened up so many conversations about college readiness and helped us reach students we might not have connected with otherwise.”
Beyond These Products: Complete Program Solutions
While we’re showcasing drinkware and apparel today, KCP Supplies offers comprehensive solutions for GEAR UP programs:
- Tech Accessories: USB drives, laptop sleeves, phone wallets
- School Supplies: Branded notebooks, planners, pens, backpacks
- Event Materials: Banners, table covers, lanyards, badge holders
- Office Items: Water bottles for staff, tote bags, folders, desk accessories
- Seasonal Items: Summer camp gear, winter accessories
- Awards and Recognition: Certificates, plaques, medals
Getting Started with Your GEAR UP Order
Ready to equip your students with merchandise that motivates and inspires?
Step 1: Define Your Needs
- How many students are you serving?
- What’s your budget per item or total?
- What’s your timeline?
- What activities are you supporting?
Step 2: Select Your Products
- Choose from our curated GEAR UP collection or explore additional options
- Consider mix-and-match kits for different student groups
Step 3: Finalize Branding
- We’ll work with you to ensure logo accuracy and placement
- Review mockups before production begins
Step 4: Place Your Order
- We handle production, quality control, and delivery
- Track your order every step of the way
Step 5: Inspire Your Students
- Distribute merchandise and watch program engagement soar!
Make College Attainable, One Product at a Time
GEAR UP exists to show students that college isn’t just a dream—it’s a real, achievable goal. Quality branded merchandise reinforces that message every single day.
When a student zips up their GEAR UP hoodie before a college visit, fills their GEAR UP tumbler for a study session, or wears their GEAR UP polo to a career day, they’re not just using promotional products. They’re embodying the belief that their future is bright and their choices are real.
Let’s work together to equip the next generation of college students with products that inspire, support, and remind them that they belong in higher education.
Contact KCP Supplies today to discuss custom promotional products for your GEAR UP program.
KCP Supplies & Logistics Inc. – Partnering with education programs that change lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can we order just drinkware or just apparel? A: Absolutely! You can order any combination of products that fits your program’s needs and budget.
Q: What’s the minimum order quantity? A: Minimums vary by product. Apparel typically requires lower minimums than some drinkware. Contact us for specific details.
Q: How long does production take? A: Standard production is 7-14 business days after artwork approval. Rush options may be available for time-sensitive needs.
Q: Can we use our state GEAR UP logo or customize the design? A: Yes! We can work with your specific GEAR UP partnership branding, state logos, or school district customizations.
Q: Do you offer size ranges for apparel? A: Yes, we offer youth and adult sizes (typically XS-3XL or larger) to accommodate all students and staff.
Q: Can we get samples before placing a large order? A: In many cases, yes. We can provide samples or show you similar items to ensure you’re confident in your selection.
Q: Do you work with other federal education programs? A: Yes! We serve TRIO, Upward Bound, AVID, and many other education initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels.
