Best Education Grants

The School Transformation Network Grant, led by the Colorado Department of Education, aims to enhance student achievement in low-performing schools through targeted support and resources. This initiative fosters collaboration between local schools and their respective educational authorities, providing professional development and personalized learning opportunities. Schools will benefit from specialized guidance and funding, ensuring a robust improvement framework focused on culture, instruction, talent, and leadership development, ultimately driving sustained educational success.

The Bolton Foundation is transitioning to the IMA Foundation grant program, enhancing collaboration and increasing funding potential for California-based nonprofits. Focus areas include community development, education, youth services, and multiculturalism, with grants up to $10,000 available. Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations located in California and demonstrate benefit to the community. This strategic shift promises to strengthen local initiatives and support impactful projects.

Liberty Bank is committed to enhancing community engagement through its Corporate and Branch Sponsorships, supporting a variety of non-profit organizations and events. With a focus on cultural, educational, and health services, Liberty Bank contributes to initiatives within Connecticut and Greater Springfield, Massachusetts. Sponsorship opportunities include fundraisers, concerts, and sporting events, fostering long-lasting community ties. By investing in local programs, Liberty Bank aims to make a meaningful impact and support the causes that matter most to its communities.

The Community Foundation of North Florida (CFNF) is excited to announce the "Helping Today, Shaping Tomorrow Grant," aimed at nonprofit organizations in the Big Bend region. With ten grants of $5,000 available, this program prioritizes initiatives focused on Education and Social & Human Services. Eligible organizations must have a minimum of two years of operational history and provide direct services to residents in specific counties. This initiative seeks to address pressing community needs and foster long-term impact.

The IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area Grant awards at least $100,000 to nonprofit organizations in five focus areas: Arts, Education, Environment, Family, and Health. Funded by member contributions, the grants aim to create significant community impact, with eligibility for tax-exempt organizations based in Escambia or Santa Rosa counties. The application process emphasizes new initiatives and collaboration among nonprofits. Membership donations are collected annually, and grants must be used within 24 months.

The Critical Needs List by Community Foundation Tampa Bay addresses urgent, unforeseen needs of nonprofits that threaten their ability to serve the community. This innovative program allows nonprofits to submit requests for funding up to $250,000 for critical expenses such as emergency repairs and essential equipment replacement. With a focus on supporting local organizations, the program aims to match funding with community philanthropists, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

The Carolyn’s Kids Grant, offered by the Berrien Community Foundation, aims to enhance the lives of children in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, and Stevensville. With two grants of $50,000 each, this initiative supports programs that address various needs, from basic necessities to educational and emotional well-being. It reflects Carolyn Hanson’s commitment to nurturing children for a stronger future. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and community organizations dedicated to improving children's lives.

The Howard Youth Endowment Program Grant, established by John E. N. and DeDe Howard through the Berrien Community Foundation, aims to enhance youth activities in Saint Joseph and Benton Harbor, Michigan. This grant supports nonprofit, school, church, and government organizations, with a preference for projects occurring at Howard facilities. The foundation envisions stronger communities by connecting caring individuals with impactful causes, ensuring the continuous development of vibrant, sustainable environments for youth.

The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, provides tax credits to incentivize donations for community projects. Aimed at enhancing community service, education, and revitalization, NAP offers up to $16 million in credits, with a maximum of $500,000 per project. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and businesses, while donors can receive credits up to 70% for their contributions. Attend the virtual workshop on April 1, 2025, to learn more about applying.

The Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County offers the Signature Community Impact Grant, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar, and Rosebud. Grants, up to $10,000, require significant community support and partnerships, with a focus on sustainability and addressing local needs. The granting process is competitive, emphasizing collaborations and in-kind contributions, and applicants must be a qualified non-profit or government entity.

The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Community Leadership Fund provides essential support for leadership development in Muhlenberg County, KY. It aims to empower individuals and groups seeking innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible applicants include those pursuing personal leadership growth or researching effective community strategies. The fund underscores inclusivity, welcoming diverse applicants without discrimination. This initiative fosters a vibrant community by equipping leaders with the resources needed to effect positive change.

The Ralph C. Vonnegut, Jr. Fund offers annual grants for projects that enhance environmental, educational, or recreational opportunities related to Lake Maxinkuckee. Proposals are evaluated based on organizational capacity, project goals, and community impact, with a preference for innovative and collaborative approaches. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations, while individuals and sectarian purposes are ineligible. Preference is given to applicants who haven't received funding in the past six months.

Impact Grants Chicago empowers women to collectively fund $100,000 grants to nonprofits addressing critical social issues in Chicago. With a four-step application process, organizations can apply for grants aimed at enhancing community impact across various focus areas such as culture, education, health, and sustainability. The initiative promotes diversity and inclusion within its membership while ensuring that funds are used effectively within 24 months. This approach not only supports local nonprofits but also engages members in meaningful philanthropic efforts.

The Beaver Dam Area Community Foundation offers bi-annual grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Dodge County. With funding ranging from $500 to $2,500, these grants support local nonprofit organizations and initiatives that address community needs in education, health, and the arts. The Foundation encourages practical solutions and collaboration among agencies, ensuring that grants benefit as many residents as possible.

The Community Micro Grants by the Sturgis Area Community Foundation (SACF) aim to enhance the quality of life in St. Joseph County, Michigan. These grants, up to $5,000, support smaller organizations or projects that directly benefit local residents. Funding is available year-round, ensuring timely assistance for initiatives in areas like education, health, and community development. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities, fostering a collaborative community spirit.

The Sturgis Area Community Foundation (SACF) offers the Other Charitable Interest Funds to support a variety of charitable needs, including education, health, and community development. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities serving St. Joseph County, Michigan. SACF prioritizes sustainable and impactful projects that enhance the quality of life in local communities. Organizations with unmet charitable needs are encouraged to reach out for additional funding opportunities.

The Moses D. Nunnally, Jr. Charitable Trust B Grant supports charitable activities in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area, established in 1984 by Moses D. Nunnally, Jr. It focuses on arts, education, health, human services, and religion, primarily aiding local organizations. Grants range from $5,000 to $75,000, with priority given to healthcare and educational initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round but must meet specific eligibility criteria, including 501(c)(3) status.

The Daniel C. and Beatrice M. Fisher Fund Grant, established by longtime Clarence Center residents, supports local non-profits and community initiatives. With a legacy of civic engagement, the Fishers aimed to enhance the Town of Clarence's betterment through this fund at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. Their commitment continues to inspire future generations. For more details, refer to the provided FAQs.

The Winifred Crawford Dibert Foundation Fund Grant supports organizations that assist the disadvantaged and fund educational initiatives, focusing primarily on services historically supported by Mrs. Dibert. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within Chautauqua County. This grant presents a valuable opportunity for local nonprofits aiming to expand their outreach and impact in the community.

The Knoxville Fund, established in 2017 by the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Knoxville, Tioga County, Pennsylvania. This fund supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives by providing grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. With a commitment to philanthropy, it connects donors with community needs, fostering collaboration to address local challenges and improve community welfare.

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.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Purpose

The purpose of this competitive grant program is to support teaching and learning related to the history of genocide. As stated in Chapter 98 of the Acts of 2021 , "Every school district shall, for the purpose of educating middle and high school students, provide instruction on the history of genocide consistent with the content standards articulated in the history and social science curriculum framework."

This grant supports LEAs to develop and/or select curriculum materials, implement professional development, and design other enriching learning experiences intended to further secondary students' understanding of the history and patterns of genocide. LEAs may propose to collaborate with vendors to support this work.

This grant is structured as a two-year program. LEAs awarded funding in FY27 (Year 1) may apply only for continuation funding in FY28 (Year 2) to support the next phase of their projects, contingent upon available funds and satisfactory progress. Continuation funding is not guaranteed. FY27 awardees will not be eligible to apply under a new FY28 competitive RFP. However, contingent upon available funds, a new cohort of LEAs may be selected through the FY28 competitive RFP process.

For more details about the genocide education in Massachusetts, please visit Genocide Education Resources and Guidance.

Priorities

DESE seeks to fund genocide education initiatives that exemplify:

Grant-funded projects should increase all students' access to high-quality genocide education experiences and work to address historical inequities where they exist. In addition, projects should provide students with culturally and linguistically sustaining learning experiences that value and affirm their identities and linguistic resources, center student and community agency, and develop students' critical perspectives. Supports for multilingual learners should be developed in alignment with the 2020 WIDA English Language Development Framework.

Grant-funded projects should take steps toward long-term enhancements to genocide education, including, but not limited to, the development of supportive instructional leadership structures. Investments such as professional development for educators or acquisition of needed instructional materials can provide benefits long past the period of this grant, as opposed to "one-off" activities.Grant-funded projects should include opportunities to work in partnership with relevant organizations and/or engage local community members. Examples include (but are not limited to): partnering with organizations with expertise in genocide education, partnering with local community-based organizations, soliciting input from relevant community stakeholders, and designing learning opportunities at local sites.Competitive priority in the scoring process will also be given to:

• Districts and schools in the strategic transformation region.
• LEAs that have not previously been awarded a Genocide Education Grant
• LEAs with a student population in which greater than 40% are designated as low-income.
• Grant-funded projects that enhance the antibias impact of their work by strengthening students' sense of safety and belonging in school. This may include learning about the relationship and differences between bullying, hate, prejudice, bias, and factors that can potentially lead to or disrupt violence and genocide, and/or applying these concepts to modern-day contexts and examples relevant to the school community. These efforts may also include work grounded in an analysis of available data [such as from the Views of Climate and Learning (VOCAL) and Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS)].

Funding

Approximately $1,200,000 is available through this grant. Total amount of awards will be determined based on quality of proposals received.

Funding is contingent upon availability. All dollar amounts listed are estimated/approximate and are subject to change. If more funding becomes available, it will be distributed under the same guidelines that appear in this RFP document.

Maximum award is determined by the total student enrollment of the applying LEA or group of LEAs if applying as a partnership. The maximum award represents what an LEA may receive over a two-year period.

• Size Tier 1: LEAs or LEA groups enrolling up to 1,000 students (total)
  • May apply for up to $40,000
• Size Tier 2: LEAs or LEA groups enrolling 1,001 – 6,000 students (total)
  • May apply for up to $80,000
• Size Tier 3: LEAs or LEA groups enrolling 6,001 – 10,000 students (total)
  • May apply for up to $120,000
• Size Tier 4: LEAs or LEA groups enrolling 10,001 or more students (total)
  • May apply for up to $160,000

Fund Use

The total funding amount listed in this RFP represents the maximum cumulative award an LEA may receive across both FY27 and FY28. This means the amount is not per year, but rather the combined ceiling for the entire two-year period. Year 2 funding is not guaranteed and is dependent on annual funding appropriation and continuation grant application approval. Applicants may request any portion of the maximum funding amount for Year 1. While applicants are encouraged to plan a two-year project, LEAs may propose a one-year project if it better aligns with their needs and capacity. Please see the Fund Use Details attachment for additional information including allowable fund use.

The Classified School Employee Summer Assistance Program (CSESAP) aims to support classified school employees in California by providing a dollar-for-dollar match on withheld pay during the 2022-23 school year. This program, funded by the California Department of Education, allows local educational agencies to assist eligible employees with their summer income, ensuring financial support as they prepare for the upcoming school year. A total of $60 million is allocated for this initiative.

The Quality Schools Grant Program, funded by the Alaska Department of Education, aims to enhance student achievement by aligning educational practices with Alaska Standards. Schools may apply for $16 per adjusted Average Daily Membership to support various educational activities, including curriculum development and tutoring. The program prioritizes interventions that positively impact students struggling with core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics, ensuring that all funded efforts contribute to measurable academic improvements.

The Career Academy Incentive Fund Grant, established by the Iowa Department of Education, supports collaborations between school districts and community colleges to enhance career academy programs. Grants up to $1 million are available annually, focusing on projects that meet specified criteria. Career academies link secondary education with postsecondary opportunities through concurrent enrollment, themed coursework, and strong partnerships. Priority is given to collaborative proposals delivered via regional centers, ensuring broad access and impactful educational experiences.

The Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation's Jewish Life Grant Program aims to enhance the Jewish community in Rochester by supporting innovative projects and collaborations. With a focus on arts, education, and Jewish life, the program invites tax-exempt organizations based in Monroe or Ontario Counties to apply. Grants are designed to address community challenges and foster long-term, meaningful contributions, emphasizing the importance of transformation and creativity in Jewish life.