Best Education Grants

About Us

Mission

We enhance the quality of life for all by working together to collectively address challenges and opportunities throughout West Michigan.

Vision

We advance the well-being of our communities by creating the best places to live, learn, work, give, and engage.

Who We Serve

We serve our entire community, without exception. Our commitment is for every individual, family, and organization who works in, visits, or calls the greater Northern Ottawa County area home.

The GHACF is a welcoming place for all people. We believe all people should:

• Feel welcome, safe, and accepted
• Be treated with respect and dignity
• Have equitable access to opportunities to improve their lives and the lives of their families
• Have a voice in the community

Grant Application Process

The Coopersville Area Community Foundation:

• Encourages programs which are collaborative, comprehensive, and have potential for continuity.
• Encourages leveraging and matching grant opportunities involving multiple funding sources.
• Supports “seed money” requests to assist innovative projects.
• Encourages programs and projects focused on problem prevention rather than cure.

Coopersville Area Grant Program

To begin the process, contact the CACF team to discuss your proposal. We’ll then review your proposal within two weeks of submission to determine whether the project aligns with our grantmaking priorities, and will respond with next steps.

If eligible the appropriate grant application will be made available to you through the online application portal. Grant applications are reviewed with due diligence and may require a follow-up site visit. Lastly, final grant decisions are made with funding recommendations made by the committee and approved through our Board of Trustees.

The Wellik Foundation Grant Cycle

Introduction

The mission of The Wellik Foundation is to preserve the unique quality of life of the Wickenburg area. Established by Vi Wellik in 1998, The Wellik Foundation was created to serve Wickenburg in perpetuity and to be the catalyst to preserve and advance the quality of life in Wickenburg. Since its inception in 1998, The Wellik Foundation has granted more than $14 million to charitable organizations serving the Wickenburg area.

The Wellik Foundation encourages proposals that:

• Leverage matching funds
• Engage strategic, mission-driven collaborations/partnerships
• Build the capacity of the organization
• Support direct service projects

The Wellik Foundation will accept proposals that benefit and support the quality of life in Wickenburg through the following focus areas:

• Maintain and promote the western lifestyle in the Wickenburg community
• Education
• Social Services
• Healthcare
• Economic Development
• The Arts

The South Carolina Department of Education offers the Public Charter Schools Program Discretionary Subgrant to foster the development and initial operation of new charter schools. This competitive grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, aims to enhance access to quality education by supporting innovative educational models and addressing achievement gaps. Eligible new charter schools can apply for funding to cover planning and implementation costs, ensuring they are effectively launched to benefit underserved student populations.

The California Mini-Corps Program aims to enhance the educational experience of migratory students by establishing a statewide network of college tutors who provide essential support in classrooms. Funded by the California Department of Education, this program recruits bilingual college students interested in teaching to assist academically at-risk migratory students. It addresses educational barriers and promotes academic success aligned with the Every Student Succeeds Act, ensuring all migratory children meet challenging state academic standards.

Ann Query Scholarship

Graduating senior who attends public, private, or home school and resides in the Zeeland Public School District area (student does not have to attend Zeeland Public Schools to be eligible)

The Louise Wachter Wickham Scholarship, established in 1997 by Donna Wickham Furth, supports high school seniors pursuing a degree in elementary education. This scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance. Recipients must demonstrate commitment to education and may need to submit additional documents such as transcripts and recommendation letters. The fund honors Louise Wachter Wickham, a dedicated teacher who believed in the transformative power of education.

The Frank and Virginia Such Memorial Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, honors two community pillars known for their dedication to education and family. This scholarship is aimed at local students pursuing a college education in teaching or education, with a focus on financial need. Eligible candidates must be at least juniors at a Michigan college, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. The application process is streamlined, allowing students to apply for multiple scholarships at once.

The Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellowship Program at California State University, Sacramento offers a unique opportunity for emerging professionals to engage in state policy-making. Participants gain hands-on experience within legislative offices, develop essential skills, and receive mentorship from seasoned staff. This program fosters a collaborative environment for aspiring leaders interested in public service, emphasizing education, environmental justice, and other critical issues. It aims to empower participants to build impactful careers while contributing to community development.

Holcomb Family Education Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2008 by the Hall County Optimist Club to honor long-time educators, J.H. Holcomb and his sisters, Margaret, Mildred, and Nell. Applicants must have demonstrated financial need and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. In 2026, one scholarship award of $1,000 will be offered.

2026-2028 District-Wide Classroom Review Grant

Program Description

The purpose of this grant is to support the implementation of district wide classroom reviews to support district strategic planning and performance systems alignment in a variety of Agency initiatives, including the Effective District Frameworks Diagnostics, Effective Schools Frameworks Diagnostics, and HB-1605 Local Classroom Reviews.

The District Wide Classroom Reviews Grant will provide school systems with a review to determine the degree to which the materials submitted (1) corresponds with the instructional materials adopted by the school district or district campus; and (2) meets the level of rigor of the essential knowledge and skills adopted under Section 28.002 for the grade level in which it is being used. The purpose of this project will be to provide logistics and operations support for all district wide classroom reviews and district wide diagnostics, including training and events, budget tracking and invoicing for completed district wide classroom reviews and working with designated vendors for additional supports and resources, including diagnostic platforms, as identified by TEA.

Gail Ingram Scholarship

The Gail Ingram Scholarship was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in 2010 by family, friends, and students of Gail Ingram to honor her 40 years in education. As a teacher of English, debate, speech, and journalism, Gail has made a lasting impact on countless students. She always encouraged students to know the world outside their community by reading critically and widely.

Recipients of the scholarship must be a graduating senior from any public high school in Banks, Hall, Habersham, Jackson, Lumpkin or White counties, and planning to attend a public school in the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia as a full-time student.  The 2026 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,000.

Audrey Davenport Scholarship

The Audrey Davenport Endowed Scholarship honors the remarkable legacy of Audrey Davenport, a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for cultural inclusion in Northeast Georgia. This scholarship celebrates Davenport’s lifelong dedication to education, leadership, and service.

Audrey was raised in Cornelia, Georgia. After graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) as a non-traditional student; with undergraduate and graduate degrees in architecture, she returned to Habersham County and became an outspoken advocate and community leader. She was the former Executive Director of the Habersham County Historical Society and current President and Curator of the Regional African American Museum of Northeast Georgia. She is widely recognized for preserving African American history in rural communities, her leadership in promoting multicultural awareness and mentoring young people throughout the region. A proud member of her community and a non-traditional graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Davenport embodies perseverance, creativity, and community leadership.

The Scholarship supports Black/African American non-traditional female students who demonstrate resilience, leadership, and a commitment to community-building as a tool for positive change. This scholarship reduces financial barriers and helps students find their own path to serving their communities with purpose and pride. The 2026 scholarship will award a one-time award in the amount of $1,000.

Welcome to Chugiak Eagle River Foundation

Our Purpose

The purposes of the Foundation are to make lasting improvements to our community and its residents; to foster the tradition of neighbors helping neighbors; and to promote a healthy and productive community. Activities include provide grants to the Chugiak-Eagle River community organizations, educational scholarships, the latter a legacy of the Briggs family. Guiding the Foundation is a commitment to honesty, compassion, respect, and stewardship. By growing our endowments, our community will have the resources to thrive now and forever.

Our Mission

The Chugiak-Eagle River Foundation, an Affiliate of the Alaska Community Foundation, is dedicated to improving the quality of life and to address emerging needs in the community of Chugiak/Eagle River, Alaska by providing grants and scholarships from a permanent endowment.

The Detter Family Foundation Education Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Allendale Charter Township pursuing post-secondary education. This competitive scholarship considers various criteria including financial need, academic achievement, and personal goals. Applicants can apply just once to be eligible for all applicable foundation scholarships, ensuring a streamlined process for securing educational funding.

The Detter Family Foundation Leaders in Mathematics and Science Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Allendale Public Schools pursuing post-secondary education in math or science. Emphasizing financial need, this scholarship also considers leadership qualities and extracurricular involvement. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate a commitment to their educational and career goals, ensuring a competitive selection process.

Heartland Bank Community Enhancement Award

Amount:

• $500

This scholarship is offered by Heartland Bank & Trust Company. Applicants should be enrolled in one of the following areas of study: business, finance, education, nursing or technology. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement outside the classroom. An additional one-page essay explaining how the scholarship will help the student achieve their education goals must accompany the application.

2026-2028 System of Great Schools: Advisor Pool Management

Program Description

TEA’s Division of System Support builds the capacity of districts to plan and execute school actions to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality fit school. One way the division builds the capacity of districts and leaders is through the System of Great Schools (SGS) network. The SGS strategy is a district-wide innovation and problem-solving approach that seeks to:

1) empower educators to design and lead high-quality schools;

2) empower families with high-quality options and informed choices; and

3) focus central office on high-leverage oversight, innovation, and support activities. 

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Dorothy A. Howard Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior from any high school in Cumberland County.

The Kiesling Family Scholarship at Montana State University provides financial support to students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education, particularly those involved in the Rural Student Teaching Program. This scholarship highlights the university's commitment to fostering educational excellence and accessibility. With varying award amounts, it aims to empower students with strong academic backgrounds and the potential for success, ensuring that quality education remains within reach for aspiring educators.

The Marshall and Betty Bjork Rural Student Teacher Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports aspiring educators from rural backgrounds pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. This scholarship, which varies in amount, is aimed at students who are graduates of Montana high schools and are participating in the Rural Student Teaching Program. It exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering educational excellence and accessibility for future teachers.

The Vonda and David Mason Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Award amounts vary, and eligibility includes being a senior status student in a rural/small school district, demonstrating financial need, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.75. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to fostering education in Montana's communities.

The Hoyt Family Rural Education Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students pursuing a degree in Teacher Education. This scholarship is designed for Montana residents who are participating in the Rural Student Teaching Program and have senior status. Award amounts vary, providing valuable financial assistance to those with a strong academic record and potential for success in education.

The Linda and Larry Hughes Family Scholarship at Montana State University provides financial support to undergraduate students pursuing a K-12 Teacher Education Program. With a minimum GPA of 3.25 and a demonstration of financial need, eligible students must also be Montana residents and secure a student teaching position. This scholarship highlights the university's commitment to fostering educational excellence and supporting future educators in their professional journey.

The Cory and Diane Knapp Pulfrey Rural Teaching Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students pursuing a degree in Teacher Education. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, be Montana residents, and commit to teaching in rural or small school districts during their student teaching semester. Financial need is also a consideration. This scholarship represents a valuable opportunity for aspiring educators to achieve their academic and professional goals.

The A. K. Erhardt Education Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students in the Department of Education who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to upperclassmen and Montana high school graduates. This scholarship fosters the growth of future educators by providing essential financial assistance, enabling students to pursue impactful careers in teaching and educational leadership.

The Synthomer Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations across the U.S. in education, health, civic initiatives, and the arts. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the Foundation has awarded $1.3 million in 2024 alone to enhance community well-being. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to qualify, while those that discriminate or engage in political activities are ineligible. Through financial support and volunteerism, the Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities and fostering a culture of giving.

The Rieschel Foundation Annual Grant supports public charities in Gallatin and Park Counties, Montana, offering up to $20,000 for general operating expenses. The grant cycle opens in February, allowing eligible organizations to submit applications. The foundation prioritizes funding for mental health services, human services, environmental initiatives, and education. With an average of 15 awards each year, the foundation aims to align with impactful organizations to foster significant community contributions.