Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Alaska

About Alaska DOT&PF

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities designs, constructs, operates and maintains the state’s transportation infrastructure systems, buildings, and other facilities used by Alaskans and visitors.

Alaska Community Transit

We support Alaska's communities—urban and rural—by ensuring safe, efficient, and accessible transit services for everyone, including transit-dependent populations.

Human Service Transportation Grant 

Purpose

The purpose of the Human Service Transportation Grant is to provide transportation services that meet the special needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities and Alaska Mental Health Trust Beneficiaries for whom public transportation services are unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate. The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, Community Transit Office (ACT) uses a combination of federal Section 5310 and Alaska Mental Health Trust funds to provide awards to nonprofit organizations or public bodies that certify that no nonprofit organization or association is readily available in an area to provide service.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Wildlife Management and Research

RMEF funds wildlife management and research to keep big game healthy and thriving, including disease surveillance, big game-friendly fencing, road management, and scientific studies that expand our understanding of big game habitat, movement, interactions, and overall herd health.

RMEF’s 2026 priorities include:

• Research on migration + connectivity, critical habitat + nutrition, big game population trajectories, challenges to big game populations, and big game management solutions
• Big Game-Friendly Fencing

The Highway Safety Grant in Alaska is designed to enhance traffic safety across various priority areas including impaired driving, police traffic services, and roadway safety. Managed by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, this grant encourages local agencies to match at least 20% of project costs, promoting sustainability and project continuation. Applications must be submitted by the specified deadline to be considered for funding.

The PNASH Pilot Project Program at the University of Washington focuses on enhancing agricultural safety and health through innovative research and outreach. The program supports both early-stage and experienced investigators in developing preliminary data, adapting proven tools, and exploring new research directions. With funding of up to $30,000 for pilot projects and an additional $5,000 for education grants, this initiative aims to improve workplace safety for agricultural workers, including those in fishing and forestry. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The Murdock College Research Program supports innovative natural sciences research at private undergraduate colleges in the Pacific Northwest. It emphasizes faculty-student collaboration, enhancing educational methods through inquiry-based teaching. Proposals are assessed on scientific merit and the investigator's qualifications, with a focus on projects that significantly contribute to fundamental knowledge in the field. This program encourages active participation from undergraduate students as research associates, fostering their development and engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Partners in Science Grant Program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, connects secondary school science teachers with research mentors to enhance their teaching and research skills. This innovative initiative offers renewable three-year grants to universities, supporting partnerships that foster professional growth through hands-on research experiences. Teachers engage in two annual conferences, allowing them to share findings and best practices, ultimately enriching the educational landscape and improving student engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Research Start-Up Grants for New Science Faculty program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, provides financial support to help new faculty positions in natural sciences at private colleges in five states. Grants match institutional funds 1:1, up to $36,000, to assist with start-up costs, including cash and in-kind support, ensuring institutions can attract qualified candidates while enhancing research capabilities.

About RE-VEEP

With federal funds from the United States Department of Energy and using the VEEP framework, AEA will execute RE-VEEP

Renewable Energy-Village Energy Efficiency Program (RE-VEEP)

The Renewable Energy-Village Energy Efficiency Program (RE-VEEP) expands on the Alaska Energy Authority’s (AEA) Village Energy Efficiency Program (VEEP), which was established to reduce per capita consumption through energy efficiency. RE-VEEP will award grants to eligible entities within Alaska to finance building-scale renewable energy, energy efficiency, and conservation projects in public buildings and facilities located in rural Alaska. Through these types of projects, communities can reduce their energy consumption and costs.

The Gino Watkins Memorial Fund & Edward Wilson Fund Grants support polar expeditions that enhance knowledge and safety in the Polar Regions. They welcome applications from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing youth engagement. The Edward Wilson Fund, administered by the Scott Polar Research Institute, particularly favors expeditions focusing on biological and ecological studies. Grants may be awarded for suitable projects, with a preference for those that train and involve young people, helping them gain valuable experience.

Operating Expense Assistance Program (OEA)

The OEA program provides direct operating expense funding to nonprofit organizations that have been certified by AHFC as a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) as defined under the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. The assistance is provided directly to the qualified nonprofit organization.

Grant Funding Availability

This program is for organizations who meet the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), HOME Investment Partnerships Program criteria as Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs) or who are interested in becoming CHDOs as defined by HUD 24 CFR Part 92.

The Camp Initiative Grant Program, a collaboration between the Rasmuson Foundation and The Alaska Community Foundation, aims to enhance access to camps and youth programs in Alaska. This initiative addresses financial barriers, offering scholarships and support for organizations to ensure equitable access to outdoor experiences. With a maximum grant amount of $45,000, it encourages diverse participation and aims to foster essential skills among Alaskan youth, promoting lifelong outdoor engagement.

The Pride Foundation Community Grants Program supports LGBTQ+ organizations in the Northwest by providing consistent funding to advance equity and justice. Since 1987, over $12 million has been awarded, with a focus on innovative and grassroots organizations. The 2024 cycle includes both proactive grants and open applications, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. This initiative centers on racial justice and aims to empower BIPOC and TGNC communities, fostering health, education, and community-building efforts.

The Community Assistance Program (CAP) provides vital funding to Alaska's boroughs, cities, and unincorporated communities. Established in 2017, CAP supports essential public services and allows recipients to prioritize their funding needs. Eligible applicants include boroughs, cities, Native Village Councils, non-profits, and reserves. This program plays a crucial role in enhancing community welfare and ensuring that local governments can effectively serve their populations.

Alaska nonprofit organizations providing community services or capacity-building programs can seek Key Bank Foundation’s invitation-only Community Grants, offering US $10,000 - US $25,000 for initiatives aligned with neighbors, education, and workforce priorities. Programs that enhance educators’ skills or support teacher-focused continuing education within these priorities may be eligible in communities where KeyBank has a retail presence.

Alaska nonprofit organizations seeking support for community services or organizational development can apply for Key Bank’s Community Sponsorships, which offer US $500 - US $5,000 for fundraising events or general operating needs. Focused on strengthening local initiatives, Key Bank invites groups serving communities where it has a retail presence to request support, which is typically decided within 90 days.

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program in Alaska aims to provide financial assistance to local communities for essential public facilities and planning activities that enhance health and safety. With a maximum grant of $850,000 per community, it supports initiatives that create jobs for low and moderate-income residents. In the 2024 cycle, approximately $2.5 million is available to eligible municipal governments, excluding Anchorage, and non-profits may partner as co-applicants.

The Designated Legislative (DL) Grants program allows communities and organizations in Alaska to seek funding through their state senators and representatives for capital projects. Funding is appropriated at the legislature's discretion and requires gubernatorial approval. Eligible projects include feasibility studies, construction, building improvements, design, land acquisition, and equipment repairs. For more information, contact your state legislator to initiate the funding process.

Undergraduate and graduate students in Alaska history can receive $5,000 for college studies through the THS Patricia Roppel Scholarship, supporting accredited programs in Alaska history. With a mission to honor historian Patricia Roppel, The Alaska Community Foundation provides Alaska educators-in-training and history-focused students with funding, with preference for Southeast Alaska or mining, fisheries, or timber history.

The Martha Levensaler Leadership Fund honors Martha's legacy as a committed leader in Alaska's conservation community. It provides grants between $500 and $3000 to support training and skill-building initiatives for volunteers, particularly focusing on grassroots engagement. The Fund encourages the development of leadership skills among youth and emerging leaders, ensuring a sustainable future for conservation efforts in Alaska. This initiative aims to empower individuals and organizations dedicated to enhancing environmental stewardship.

The Atlantic Flyway Shorebird Initiative Grant supports crucial conservation efforts for shorebirds during their migration along the Atlantic Flyway. This initiative addresses threats such as human disturbance, habitat loss, and hunting in critical areas from the U.S. Atlantic coast to the Caribbean and South America. By promoting coordinated research and management, the initiative aims to ensure the survival of species like the American oystercatcher and red knot, fostering healthy migratory pathways.

The Alaska Literary Awards, established in 2014 by the Alaska Arts and Culture Foundation, support literary artists in poetry, fiction, and more. With annual awards of $5,000, the program aims to recognize quality work from Alaska residents. Applicants must be over 18 and not enrolled in full-time studies. The awards allow recipients the freedom to use the funds as they wish, fostering creativity and growth in Alaska's literary community.

The Alaska Watchable Wildlife Conservation Trust Grant Program, managed by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, offers grants up to $5,000 every two years to support projects enhancing sustainable wildlife viewing and education. This initiative aims to conserve Alaska's unique biological diversity. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations based in Alaska or with Alaska-based programs. The next application deadline is August 2025, encouraging innovative solutions to protect Alaska's vulnerable ecosystems and promote wildlife appreciation.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

The Master Artist and Apprentice Grant, offered by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, aims to preserve traditional Alaska Native art forms through apprenticeships. This program supports a one-on-one learning experience between an apprentice and a master artist in various art disciplines, such as visual arts, crafts, and storytelling. Priority is given to cultural traditions, ensuring funds primarily support the master artist's fee, thereby fostering the growth of Alaska Native arts in the community.

Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible government entities can seek funding for workforce development, sustainability, and thriving community initiatives, including STEM education and youth development. Marathon Petroleum supports programs across its marketing area, with preference for communities near its operations; inquiries may lead to an invitation-only grant application process.

Grant-in-Aid (GIA) 

"Grant In Aid" is a program that the Alaska State Museum has been offering to museums and cultural centers across Alaska for over four and a half decades! There are two separate tracks that you may apply for. Museums and cultural centers can apply for either a Mini Grant or a Regular Grant but cannot apply for both. 

The Alaska State Museum (ASM) provides Alaska museums with funding to enhance museum services through the annual Grant-in-Aid (GIA) program. 

Both grant programs support projects that supplement or improve the services that a museum provides. Organizations can use grant awards for projects related to collections, exhibits, education, outreach, and organizational development. Funds can be used to purchase supplies and equipment, pay for contractual services or other items necessary to support and improve museum services and operations. Museums are encouraged to submit project proposals in support of consultations with Tribes as required under the new NAGPRA regulations. The program may consider proposals that provide funding for professional development and training. 

Mini Grants

Up to $2,000 are available for small museums and cultural centers with annual operating budgets that are less than $100,000.