Best Grants for Teachers in Georgia

Affordable Materials Grants

Purpose

Affordable Learning Georgia is a GALILEO initiative to reduce the cost of course materials for students. Since 2014, the initiative has addressed affordability goals in the University System of Georgia with regards to the cost of educational resources. For more about Affordable Learning Georgia, see our Mission and Values page. For data and more information about how these programs have affected USG students, visit the Our Impact page.

The implementation of no-cost and low-cost materials in place of a commercial textbook has been found to be an effective practice, either raising student performance or keeping it the same while reducing the cost of course materials to students. To this end, Affordable Learning Georgia (ALG)’s Affordable Materials Grants are intended to:

• Explore and expand course materials transformation to include the adoption, adaptation, and creation of OER; the adoption of materials available through GALILEO and University System of Georgia (USG) libraries; and the use of other no-cost and low-cost materials.
• Provide support and time to faculty instructors, librarians, instructional designers, and other professional staff to meet, plan, review, and implement these approaches.
• Work toward access for all, lowering materials costs for students and contributing to their retention, progression, and graduation.

Examples of qualifying Affordable Materials Grants projects include:

• Adopting an open textbook and creating new ancillary materials to support the adoption.
• Adapting and revising existing OER and then adopting these new materials in place of commercial materials.
• Authoring a new open textbook to adopt in place of a commercial textbook when there are no OER to cover the subject.
• Adopting library materials in place of expensive materials when there are no OER to cover the subject.
• Adopting low-cost software and/or textbooks to ensure total required resource costs for students are under $40.00.
• Affordable Learning Georgia has also added a category of Research Grants to explore research questions related to teaching and learning with affordable and open learning materials.

Affordable Learning Georgia has also added a category of Research Grants to explore research questions related to teaching and learning with affordable and open learning materials.

Overview of Grant Categories

Research Grants

In order to learn more about how implementations of open resources affect various aspects of instruction and student outcomes, new research studying the impact of open educational resources and open pedagogy also qualifies through the same funding structure as a Continuous Improvement Grant project.

This is a limited funding category: the total funds awarded for Research Grants in a Fiscal Year will not exceed $45,000.

In order to ensure project feasibility, research grant teams must involve at least one non-instructional faculty research collaborator on the project to help manage the project and conduct research activities. Collaborators can include research faculty or professional staff such as institutional researchers, instructional designers and technologists, librarians, or student assistants.

Research questions must aim to further our broader knowledge of OER and affordable materials use beyond the basic course-level measures required in Transformation Grant projects. Topics can include, but are not limited to, these examples:

• Access effects: Does the free and open access to open educational resources lead to increased student success over other resources?
  • Analyzing disaggregated data, such as the data analysis in Colvard, Watson, and Park 2018, is preferred over only total student measures.
• Openness effects: Does the ability to revise and remix open resources for more localized student relevance influence student success over the use of other resources?
• Perceptions effects: What do students and/or faculty prefer in an educational resource? When students and/or faculty describe an open resource as high- or low- quality, what do they mean?
• Engagement effects: Does the openness of materials affect how, or how often, students interact with educational materials?

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 NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The W. G. Raoul Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of children with asthma in Georgia through education and prevention initiatives. Established in 1913, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations addressing pediatric asthma, offering grants ranging from $20,000 to $70,000 for one-year projects. The foundation prioritizes funding for smaller organizations and preventive programs, and it holds biannual meetings to review grant applications, aiming to foster innovative solutions in asthma care.

The TD Automotive Compressor Georgia (TACG) Community Scholarship, managed by the North Georgia Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to high school seniors in Jackson County, Georgia. Established in 2006, the scholarship supports students who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and plan to enroll full-time at accredited colleges or vocational schools. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster community development through ongoing support for local students.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The CFNGA Catholic Community Grants support nonprofits, parishes, and Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Atlanta. These grants are funded through endowments specifically established for grant-giving, with amounts varying by cycle. Non-Catholic organizations can apply if their mission aligns with Catholic teachings. The grants aim to foster a thriving Catholic community by providing necessary resources to serve both current and future generations.

The GA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Georgia through funding for projects focused on research, education, or marketing. Eligible projects include those that increase consumption in schools, improve food safety, and enhance marketability of specialty crops. The program is open to groups based in Georgia, including grower associations and educational institutions, and prioritizes projects that benefit local producers.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The OneGeorgia Equity Fund's Rural Workforce Housing Initiative aims to provide financial assistance through grants and loans to address housing needs for working families in eligible counties. The program prioritizes projects that foster collaboration among local governments and partners, aiming to improve housing stock and meet workforce demands. Funding caps are set at $2.5 million for infrastructure and $1 million for construction, with a minimum application threshold of $250,000. Compliance with audit requirements is essential for applicants.

The Kirby Smart Family Foundation

The Kirby Smart Family Foundation enthusiastically supports those battling misfortune so that they can become victors over their circumstances.

Mary Beth and Kirby Smart have always exhibited the focus and work ethic required to become champions on and off the field. They bring that same passion to the opportunity to help children and families who are facing adversity. Working to be champions and help those in need in their home state of Georgia means so much to their family.

Our Mission: To be champions in our community by supporting and giving back to needy children and families facing adversity.

Grant Applications

During our annual Grant Application process, The Kirby Smart Family Foundation has the privilege of learning more about the incredible organizations in our community. Applications are thoroughly reviewed to ensure that the organization's needs align with our mission statement.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

Scholars selected to participate in the year-long program, are matched with a research project submitted by prospective graduate/postdoc mentors. Their research begins in the spring semester (January 2026) while taking regular coursework. During this time, they acquire the skills and training necessary to develop their research projects and chart their course for the upcoming year. In the summer semester, scholars conduct their research full-time (40 hours/week) immersing and integrating into the research group, and attending group meetings and other lab activities. When classes resume in the final fall semester, scholars continue their research to develop results to present at an end-of-year poster session and celebration in October/November.

Priority consideration will be given to Scholar applicants with a stated interest in the following research areas:

• Automation and Supply Chain Management
• Biomaterials
• Cell Manufacturing
• Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
• Imaging of Living Systems
• Mechanical Engineering
• Pediatric Technologies
• Regenerative Medicine
• Systems Biology

The James R. Bullock, Jr. Scholarship, offered by the American Society of Heating Refrigerating & A C Engineers, is a one-year scholarship aimed at undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering students in ASHRAE Region IV. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 and meet specific criteria, such as being enrolled in an accredited program or a school hosting an ASHRAE student branch. This scholarship promotes education in HVAC&R fields and supports future professionals.

The Region IV Benny Bootle Memorial Scholarship offers a one-year financial award for undergraduate students in pre-engineering, engineering, or architecture within ASHRAE Region IV (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia). Candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meet specific eligibility criteria, including affiliation with an ASHRAE student branch or an ABET-accredited program. This scholarship aims to support future leaders in the HVAC&R industry, promoting sustainability and innovation in engineering.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

About

Created by the Georgia General Assembly in 1981 as an executive branch agency, the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) is a statewide body established to build consensus and unity among the State's diverse and interdependent criminal justice system components. CJCC is legislatively charged with twelve areas of criminal justice coordination. Among those responsibilities is to serve as the statewide clearinghouse for criminal justice information and research, develop criminal justice legislative and executive policy proposals, and serve in an advisory capacity to the governor on issues impacting the criminal justice system.

FY27 State Crisis Intervention Program – Behavioral Health

The Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP), authorized by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022, provides formula funds to support gun violence reduction programs and initiatives. Grant funding will focus on behavioral health deflection, which refers to strategies and programs within the criminal justice system designed to redirect individuals with behavioral health needs away from traditional punitive measures (such as incarceration) and towards rehabilitative and supportive services. These strategies aim to address the underlying issues of behavioral health and reduce potential violence by providing alternatives to prosecution and promoting interventions that support recovery and reintegration into society.

The Wildlife Viewing Grants Program by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources offers small grants aimed at enhancing public awareness and appreciation of nongame wildlife and rare native plants. This initiative supports local governments, nonprofits, and for-profit entities in developing wildlife viewing projects that align with conservation priorities in the State Wildlife Action Plan. With millions participating in wildlife viewing annually, the program aims to foster appreciation while ensuring sustainable practices.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA) on Aug. 4, 2026, seeking to fund high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. This preannouncement provides potential applicants additional time to identify collaborators; obtain patient and stakeholder input on potential studies; and develop responsive, high-quality applications. 

Patient-centered CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences. 

Service Objects In-Kind Grants support non-profit organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. By leveraging their data validation services, they aim to assist projects that promote ecological health and responsible resource management. The program prioritizes applications with clear, measurable objectives and impactful outcomes within one to three years. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. are eligible, while initiatives lacking detailed plans or focusing on generalized education will not qualify. This grant fosters community involvement in environmental stewardship.

The REACH Georgia Scholarship Program is a needs-based initiative aimed at mentoring and supporting students from 8th grade through high school graduation. It provides financial scholarships up to $10,000 for postsecondary education at HOPE-eligible institutions in Georgia. Each scholar is paired with a mentor for guidance, while academic coaches help track progress and plan for future success. This comprehensive program ensures that students receive the necessary support to thrive academically and achieve their educational goals.

The Malone Family Foundation aims to enhance community welfare by improving education and self-esteem among students from pre-kindergarten to higher education. The Foundation prioritizes innovative projects that maximize impact, long-term value, and effective management. It specifically supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in Alabama, with limited consideration for Florida and Georgia, while excluding groups not aligned with its mission, including those lacking operational history or those engaged in political activities.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.