Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Missouri

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The New Era Scholarship, offered by The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, provides up to $12,000 annually for eligible students from select youth development agencies and high schools in the St. Louis area. This renewable scholarship supports those aiming to attend accredited colleges or technical schools in Missouri and select Illinois institutions. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and meet academic criteria, making this an essential opportunity for local high school seniors.

The rootEd Community College Transfer Scholarship supports students transitioning from Missouri community colleges to accredited four-year institutions. This renewable scholarship awards up to $12,000 annually, aiming to enhance educational access for those in rural areas. Established by the rootEd Alliance in 2018, it addresses the unique challenges faced by these students, ensuring financial barriers do not hinder their academic aspirations.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Recent Retirees

Retirees of Regions and its affiliated companies are eligible for the Matching Gift Program for up to 5 years after retirement (the gift date must be within the first 5 years of retirement). Regions will match donations of $25 or more, up to a total of $1,000 per year per retiree.

The Regions Community Affairs team will contact the organization on your behalf to verify the gift and review eligibility.

Missouri 501(c)(3) public charities and K–12 public schools, colleges, and universities can seek funding for water, people, and community initiatives that support sanitation, clean drinking water, and water resource management. With a mission to strengthen communities, American Water Works Company provides grants in communities served by American Water within Missouri.

The "I'm Pet Friendly" License Plate Grants aim to enhance spay and neuter programs across Missouri by providing funding to eligible animal shelters and non-profit organizations. By purchasing specialty license plates, individuals contribute to a fund that supports these initiatives. Grants are evaluated by a panel and awarded based on the availability of funds, ensuring effective use of resources to reduce the pet population and improve animal health care in the state.

The Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant Program supports small agribusinesses in urban Missouri, offering funding for projects that enhance agribusiness sustainability and economic growth. Eligible projects include business plan development, community gardens, and training programs for workforce development. Grants cover up to 75% of project costs, with a maximum award of $10,000, aimed at fostering local agricultural initiatives and infrastructure. This program encourages innovation in urban farming and aims to strengthen local economies.

The Missouri State Parks Bus Grant Program provides funding to schools and nonprofit organizations to cover transportation costs for field trips to state parks and historic sites. This initiative aims to enhance outdoor learning experiences for children, connecting them with nature while promoting cultural and recreational opportunities. Eligible costs include bus mileage, charter services, and driver wages. The program supports a maximum of two grants per school district to ensure broad access to these valuable educational resources.

The MO Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers to enhance their conservation practices and improve resource management on their lands. This program offers financial incentives based on conservation performance, encouraging sustainable agriculture across 70 million acres in the U.S. All producers, regardless of operation size, can apply, ensuring inclusivity. CSP contracts last five years, with the option to renew, promoting long-term stewardship of land while benefiting local ecosystems and communities.

The MO Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a key initiative by NRCS aimed at assisting farmers and forest landowners in integrating conservation practices into their operations. EQIP offers both financial and technical support to address vital natural resource issues including water quality, soil health, and erosion control. Applications are accepted year-round, and special provisions exist for historically underserved producers, ensuring equitable access to vital resources for sustainable agricultural practices.

The MO Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to protect the viability of agricultural land by limiting non-agricultural uses. Aimed at landowners, including tribes and local governments, the program prioritizes applications that enhance conservation values and protect contiguous agricultural acres. Benefits include safeguarding the nation's food supply, promoting environmental quality, and supporting local partnerships for land stewardship. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding cycles extending into future years.

The MO Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to assist landowners in restoring and protecting wetlands that have been degraded by agricultural practices. This program enhances habitat for wildlife, improves water quality, and mitigates flooding, while providing landowners with financial support for easement acquisition and restoration efforts. NRCS prioritizes applications that significantly benefit migratory birds and other wildlife, ensuring ecological sustainability and resilience against climate change.

Missouri Prairie Foundation

The Missouri Prairie Foundation is a private, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) land trust governed by a volunteer board of directors. MPF was founded in 1966 by a small group of conservation professionals and volunteers who were concerned about the rapid decline of greater prairie-chickens and the degradation and loss of grassland habitat throughout the state of Missouri. Since that time, MPF has grown and developed with several goals in mind, including the permanent protection of prairie habitat and the need for greater understanding of the role of native grasslands in wildlife conservation, energy security and carbon storage. 

The mission of MPF is to protect and restore prairie and other native grassland communities through land acquisition, management, education, and research; to promote the use of native plants through its Grow Native! program; and to support the control of invasive plants through its administration of the Missouri Invasive Plant Council. 

Prairie Garden Grants Program 

Gardening and other conservation groups, parks, schools, and other entities in Missouri and immediately surrounding states are invited to submit proposals to MPF’s Prairie Garden Grants Program. In 2026, MPF would like to award several grants to help fund the establishment or improvement of public prairie gardens or plantings using Midwest native plants. Grants will not exceed $800 each. Those with smaller projects are encouraged to apply as well. Matching funds are not required, but proposals with secured matching funds may be evaluated higher than others.

Missouri rural local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes can access USDA Rural Development emergency funding to secure safe, reliable drinking water. This program provides up to US $1,000,000 for water transmission lines, new water sources, intakes, or treatment facilities in eligible low-income rural areas facing disasters or urgent water threats.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The Missouri Humanities Council offers Mini Grants aimed at supporting humanities-based projects and programs. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and civic entities based in Missouri. The grants encourage engagement with humanities scholars, fostering community life through open exchanges of ideas. Funding may cover various expenses such as speaker fees, supplies, and promotional costs, aiming to expand understanding and participation in cultural activities. Special consideration is given to underserved communities and first-time applicants.

The Missouri Humanities Council (MHC) offers Major Grants to support humanities-based projects and programs in Missouri. Founded in 1971, MHC aims to connect communities with humanities scholars, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural and civic life. Grants are available to non-profit and civic organizations, with applications reviewed bi-annually. Funding can cover various costs, but must not exceed 100% of project expenses. Accessibility and community engagement are key focus areas.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Distinguished Contribution Award

The purpose of the Distinguished Contribution Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a member who has conducted or promoted research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award

The purpose of the Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a new investigator who has conducted nursing research that has the potential to enhance the science and practice of nursing.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Inez Y. Kaiser GKC-PRSA Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Inez Y. Kaiser Scholarship, offered by the Public Relations Society of America Greater Kansas City Chapter, honors the legacy of Inez Y. Kaiser, a trailblazing public relations leader and the first Black woman to own a national PR firm. The scholarship supports African American/Black college juniors and first-semester seniors nationwide who are enrolled in an accredited public relations or communications program and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The $5,000 award recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, commitment to public relations excellence, and volunteerism—hallmarks of Dr. Kaiser’s career. Additional consideration is given to PRSSA members, PRSSA chapter leaders, and residents of Kansas or Missouri, though residency is not required. Scholars also receive recognition and networking opportunities to support their professional development.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an MNRS member who has demonstrated sustained influential leadership and service to the organization, such as chairing committees, organizing annual conference activities, or serving on the Board of Directors. 

The Specialty Care Access Grant Program, managed by the Patterson Family Foundation, aims to enhance access to specialty medical services in rural communities of Kansas and western Missouri. Organizations eligible for funding include nonprofits, school districts, and government entities serving these areas. The program emphasizes collaboration with local leaders to ensure quality healthcare access for communities, particularly in maternal care, oncology, and mental health, while encouraging early submission of proposals for timely review.

The Patterson Family Foundation invites innovative proposals aimed at enhancing healthcare in rural communities. Registration is required before applying, with deadlines for the first and second rounds set for April 18 and July 3, 2025, respectively. The foundation, dedicated to helping rural areas thrive, particularly encourages projects that test new models to expand maternal care, promoting better health outcomes and long-term impact in these underserved regions.

The Patterson Family Foundation is inviting innovative proposals to enhance community engagement in rural areas. With a focus on projects that foster long-term involvement from all generations, the Foundation aims to support initiatives that contribute to the mission of thriving rural communities. To apply, organizations must be located within the Foundation's Kansas and western Missouri catchment and possess nonprofit status. Early submission of the Letter of Intent is highly recommended for timely review.

The Patterson Family Foundation supports healthcare workforce development in rural communities across Kansas and western Missouri. The foundation encourages programs that enhance education, licensure, and retention of healthcare professionals. Organizations must register for grant consideration, and eligibility includes being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity. The foundation's mission focuses on strategic initiatives to ensure rural communities thrive, emphasizing collaboration and investment in essential services.