Best Grants for Preschools in Colorado

About Serve Colorado

Serve Colorado works under the leadership of the Governor’s Commission on Community Service to distribute and administer Colorado AmeriCorps State funding from AmeriCorps, the federal agency. The mission of AmeriCorps is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic participation through service and volunteering.

Planning Grants

This Notice is for organizations interested in applying for a 2026-2027 Serve Colorado AmeriCorps State planning grant. An AmeriCorps planning grant provides organizations with resources to assess the feasibility, readiness, and design of a potential AmeriCorps program or to explore opportunities to deepen the reach, scale, impact, or effectiveness of existing service models. The goal is to develop a strong, sustainable program model that is responsive to community priorities and positioned to pursue future AmeriCorps operational funding. 

Serve Colorado is seeking planning grant applications in the following areas: 

• State Service Plan Alignment and Program Strengthening
• AmeriCorps Program Expansion into Colorado

Funding

Serve Colorado awards planning grants up to $150,000. The project period will be co-determined by the applicant and Serve Colorado based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the applicants’ familiarity with AmeriCorps organizational capacity, and proposed timeline. Per statute, the planning grant award may not last more than 365 days and cannot be extended for any reason.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Developing Agency, Identity, and Belonging In Young People Grants aim to empower BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and other marginalized youth by creating safe spaces that foster community and belonging. This funding supports programs focused on developing identity, agency, and resilience, helping young people navigate challenges. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $250,000 over two years, prioritizing culturally responsive and inclusive initiatives that actively involve youth in program development.

The Edward Madigan Foundation, established in memory of Edward J. Madigan, supports public charities focused on education, health, human services, and religion. With an annual giving of approximately $70,000, it aims to promote a strong work ethic and moral values, particularly among at-risk youth. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with 10 to 15 grants awarded each year. The foundation does not fund individuals or organizations with fiscal sponsors.

The FCGS Foundation offers financial support ranging from $500 to $1,000 for master’s degree candidates conducting geologic research in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. Eligible applicants must be full-time graduate students in accredited institutions, U.S. citizens, and not related to selection committee members. The thesis should enhance regional geologic knowledge and must meet the approval of the selection committee. This grant has been active since 1991, promoting advancements in various geologic disciplines.

The Peter Grant Preservation Fund for Colorado, established by the National Trust, honors William W. Grant's dedication to historic preservation. Grants support the preservation of historic places in Colorado, requiring a one-to-one match from applicants. Eligible organizations include public agencies and nonprofits, with funds usable for various preservation activities. The fund aims to enhance Colorado's historic sites for future generations, adapting to current economic conditions and allowing both cash and in-kind contributions.

The Southwest Intervention Fund, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supports preservation efforts of traditional cultures across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, West Texas, and Utah. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 are available for local partners, nonprofits, and government agencies to address emergency threats and promote preservation planning. Eligible projects include archaeological site surveys, public awareness workshops, and legal assistance for cultural resource management, ensuring the protection of vital historic sites.

The Bellco Foundation Community Giving Grant supports initiatives in Financial Education, Quality of Life, and Arts & Culture. Focused on impactful contributions, Bellco aims to empower communities through partnerships with organizations like EconLitCO and Food Bank of the Rockies. The grant prioritizes requests from 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with Bellco's business objectives while excluding typical fundraising events and political affiliations. Applications must be submitted at least 90 days prior to events.

The Martin Family Foundation, established in 2001, focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that promote faith-based education, assist the poor and at-risk, and uphold the sanctity of human life. With a mission rooted in Christian values, the Foundation prioritizes programs in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming that break the cycle of poverty and encourage community involvement. While it occasionally supports operating expenses, the Foundation prefers funding projects that align with its core values.

The Aiken Audubon Mini-Grants program, initiated by the Aiken Audubon Society, aims to promote bird conservation in the Pikes Peak region. Grants ranging from $100 to $500 are available for individuals and community organizations that align with the society's mission. The program continues the legacy of ornithological study established by pioneers like Charles Aiken. With the goal of supporting at least four mini-grants per year, it fosters local engagement in wildlife conservation efforts.

The Reproductive Health Equity initiative aims to enhance sexual and reproductive health for all Coloradans, particularly marginalized communities. By ensuring access to accurate information and culturally relevant services, we empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health. Our collaborative approach involves various stakeholders to promote equitable healthcare solutions. This initiative prioritizes young people, people of color, and low-income individuals, striving to dismantle systemic barriers and support reproductive autonomy across the state.

The René M. Vandervelde Research Grant, offered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support students and researchers in marine paleontology, geology, or stratigraphy of the Late Cretaceous Pierre and Bearpaw Shales in North America. Established in 2007 with the support of Korite® International, the grant aims to promote scientific research and publications about the unique fauna and flora found in these geological deposits.

The Best and Brightest Management Internship Program in Colorado connects high school and undergraduate students with local governments to foster future leaders in public service. This initiative offers paid internships and fellowships, enhancing students' professional development while addressing community needs. By partnering with educational institutions, the program promotes diversity and inclusion, ensuring that new leaders reflect the communities they serve. This effort is vital for building a pipeline of engaged, informed, and capable public service professionals.

The CO Educational Stability Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Education, aims to support educational stability for highly mobile students, including those in foster care, experiencing homelessness, or migrants. Established by House Bill 18-1306 in 2018, the program focuses on removing educational barriers, improving attendance, and increasing graduation rates for these vulnerable populations. By providing academic and social-emotional support, the grant seeks to enhance educational outcomes for students facing high mobility challenges.

Every Kindness is a Gift

Dollar Tree Gift Card Program 2026

Every Kindness is a Gift is a gift card grant program made possible through the generosity of Dollar Tree and managed by the team here at Gift Card Bank. We are a nonprofit organization that specializes in the distribution of gift cards and our mission is to improve well-being and build financial stability by supporting people through their time of need.

Through Every Kindness is a Gift, nonprofit organizations and Title I schools located in the 48 contiguous states may apply to receive a grant of Dollar Tree gift cards.

Gift cards received through these grants are meant to be distributed directly to individuals and families in need. A primary goal of the program is to give gift card recipients the dignity of choice by empowering them to shop for what they need themselves. By putting gift cards directly in the hands of our neighbors in need, we are able to increase access to essentials like food, school supplies, paper products, cleaning products, and hygiene items.

In 2026, there will be two rounds of grant distributions. In each round, we will award a number of grants between $2,500 and $10,000.

Round One is a summer distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round One will arrive in late June, while kids are on break and back-to-school is around the corner. Round Two is a holiday distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round Two will arrive in early November, as the end-of-year holidays approach.

We know that these are times of year when budgets are tight. Through these gift card grants, we hope to connect individuals and families directly to the essential resources they need during difficult months.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Colorado Trust offers event sponsorships aimed at supporting health equity initiatives in Colorado. Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status can apply for funding up to $5,000 for fundraising and special events that align with the Trust's vision. The application schedule has been expanded to six cycles annually, providing more opportunities for organizations to seek support. This initiative reflects the Trust's commitment to ensuring all Coloradans have equal chances to lead healthy lives.

The BEST Capital Construction Grant, managed by the Colorado Department of Education, offers competitive funding for capital construction projects in public school facilities. This initiative supports school districts, charter schools, and other educational entities, enabling them to build new schools or renovate existing ones. Established in 2008, the grant aims to enhance educational environments for approximately 886,517 students across Colorado, fostering improved learning conditions and accessibility for all learners.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

The Western SARE Graduate Student Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative research and educational outreach in sustainable agriculture. Funded by the USDA, it aims to enhance environmental quality, improve profitability for producers, and uplift rural communities. Projects must involve both research and education components, with proposals authored by graduate students collaborating with their advisors. This initiative fosters communication of results to agricultural professionals, ensuring practical applications for sustainable practices in the Western U.S.

The Western SARE Professional + Producer Grant Program fosters collaboration between Agricultural Technical Advisors and Producers to promote sustainable agriculture through research and outreach. This initiative aims to improve environmental quality, enhance profitability for farmers, and ensure community well-being. By supporting demonstrations, educational activities, and practical applications, the program seeks to communicate effective sustainable practices to agricultural professionals, ultimately benefiting rural economies and ecosystems.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

The Western SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports education and outreach for agricultural professionals. Aimed at enhancing knowledge in sustainable agriculture, it provides funding for projects that train educators and farmers through workshops, conferences, and digital media. With a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture, projects can last up to three years and receive up to $100,000 in funding. This initiative fosters a 'train the trainer' approach to improve agricultural practices.

The Colorado Wetlands for Wildlife Program invites applications for projects aimed at restoring, enhancing, and creating wetlands and riparian areas. This initiative focuses on improving habitats for ducks and other at-risk species, supporting public waterfowl hunting, and addressing conservation needs. Local governments, tribes, and non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply. The program emphasizes collaborative efforts to achieve habitat improvements, aligning with the Colorado State Wildlife Action Plan.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Brunton Award, sponsored by the Association for Women Geoscientists, encourages female geoscience students in their senior year or early graduate studies. It recognizes those who have excelled in fieldwork, such as internships or field camps, and promotes the importance of field-based studies in geosciences. Recipients receive an engraved Brunton transit and a one-year membership to AWG, supporting their future in the geosciences.