Best K–12 Education Grants

The NewSchools: Innovative Schools Grant supports education leaders aiming to create new public and charter schools that address the unique needs of today's students. With funding ranging from $150,000 to $250,000, the grant emphasizes equity and innovative educational models. Applications are encouraged before the December 10, 2024 priority deadline, with the final deadline on January 8, 2025. This initiative seeks to empower diverse communities through transformative educational solutions.

The C.B. Eller Teacher Grants support Wilkes County educators by funding professional development opportunities up to $1,500. Established in 1987, these grants aim to enhance classroom effectiveness through various educational experiences, including training and specialized projects. Eligible applicants include full or part-time teachers directly interacting with students, while funds cannot support salary or graduate studies. Priority is given to proposals demonstrating student impact and professional growth.

The FORUM Credit Union Foundation offers educator grants to enhance educational opportunities in Marion, Hamilton, Johnson, Boone, Hendricks, and Hancock counties. Each educator can receive up to $3,000 for classroom projects, supplies, and supplemental learning experiences, with a total of $30,000 allocated annually. Eligible applicants include K-12 teachers and administrators who are FORUM members in good standing. Preference is given to equitable distribution of grants across service areas.

Our Guiding Vision

A community where strong and accessible education can expand worlds and change lives.

History of the Trust

The Hamilton Family Charitable Trust comprises two generations of the Hamilton family with a long history of philanthropy in the Philadelphia region. Since 1992, the family has been committed to improving educational opportunities for children and youth, a mission established by Dorrance (Dodo) Hamilton (1928–2017), mother and grandmother of the family Trustees. The family extended their philanthropic reach to Palm Beach County, FL and Aquidneck Island, RI in 2017. The family convenes four times annually to honor this legacy, supporting myriad programs that enhance the lives of the young people they serve.

Hamilton Family Foundation Grant

Program Focus

• Data-driven literacy-based programs focused on developing robust reading and writing skills with a strong history of success.
  • These can be programs that:
    • Take place during school hours, after school, or during the summer.
    • Take place across school systems, but the funding can support only nonsectarian programming including within a religious institution.
  • Grades K-8 programs should devote at least 70 percent of their time directly to instruction and activities in reading and writing.
  • Grades 9-12 programs should provide innovative approaches to students in under-resourced areas for success in higher education, from the college admission process and acceptance through to completion.
  • Youth workforce development programs that focus on quality career exploration and preparation initiatives.
  • Recreational programs with a strong academic component.

Things To Consider

• First-time grants: generally designated for program support. The Trust rarely funds new staff positions for initial grants.
• Continuing partners: generally made for either programmatic or operational support.
• Multi-year grants: requests are typically reserved for grantees with five (5) years or more of consecutive funding from the Trust. Multi-year grants require approval prior to application submission. Approval is generally communicated in response to the LOI.

The McBeth Foundation Grant supports meaningful initiatives in animal welfare, environmental conservation, the arts, children's programs, health sciences, and communications. Founded by Barbara McBeth Woodruff, the foundation aims to create measurable improvements in local communities. Grants are intended for projects that can benefit multiple individuals, fostering growth like a seed that matures into a tree, offering shade and fruit. Eligible applicants must hold a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Mission

The Sherwood Foundation® promotes equity through social justice initiatives enhancing the quality of life in Nebraska.

Vision

We believe social justice is the proactive reinforcement of policies, practices, attitudes, and actions that all produce equitable power, access, opportunities, treatment, impacts, and outcomes for all.

Who We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to organizations that are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3), government entities, schools, or churches that are serving Nebraska. These organizations must be in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service. 

What We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that predominately benefit those that are serving Nebraska and must address one of our categories:

Urban Community Partnerships

Our work in Nebraska’s urban communities focuses on family stability and child wellbeing with an overarching emphasis on community context. Using a two-generation approach, we are interested in the relationship between direct service provision and the greater systems that impact a community. Applicants are wise to cite specific research that influences a service model or approach to solving a community challenge.

Omaha Public Schools

Guidelines: 

• OPS employees must obtain approval from the District before submitting an application. 
• Applications lacking such documentation will not receive consideration.
• For assistance, please contact the OPS Grant Coordinator at 531.299.9653.

Greater Nebraska Initiatives

Through these grants, The Sherwood Foundation promotes equity and inclusion as pathways for creating the good life for all in Nebraska.  Core areas of work include child welfare, immigrant inclusion, housing, advocacy & civic engagement, leadership, and community infrastructure. Requests from communities outside of the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas are considered during standard grant cycles.

Early Childhood Education

The Sherwood Foundation supports early childhood education on a regional and national basis through The Buffett Early Childhood Fund.

What the Sherwood Foundation Values

 The Sherwood Foundation has strongly held values regarding civil liberties, equality and fairness with a particular focus on women and people oppressed because of their race, sexual orientation, and/or religion or lack-thereof.

• We respect that not all nonprofit organizations share the same values as the Foundation.
• We don’t ask nonprofits to change values for us or for funding.
• We do ask that nonprofits leaders respect our values and save everyone time and energy by not seeking funding if our organizational values aren’t aligned.

Equal rights.

We believe all humans are created equal. We work to eliminate government and social barriers to equality.

Access to civic life.

We are proud to live in a democracy and believe that the rights provided to individuals in the United States should be protected and the best way to protect those rights is to ensure equal access to the voting polls. 

Reproductive justice.

We support a woman’s right to self-determination about reproductive health choices. We expect our grantees serving women and girls to ensure access and education to all health care options, including abortion. 

Opportunity to thrive.

We believe a zip code should not determine the outcome of a life. We see how government institutions and laws have historically and do presently oppress and suppress opportunity, particularly for people of color but also other minority populations and women. We work with our community to undo systemic oppression and build systems that meet the needs of citizens and do not further oppress. We seek economic justice for our neighbors and the opportunity that lies therein.

Access to services.

We expect grantees to ensure that clients have access to services and that service providers work to remove barriers rather than create barriers to care and compassion. A service provider’s religious belief system should not be imposed upon those who seek their services, whether through proselytization, coercion, guilt, or an unspoken quid-pro-quo expectation to participate in faith-based classes or religious services.

Operating Grants

The Sherwood Foundation® believes that providing operating support can make all the difference to nonprofit organizations by providing flexible funding to cover the ongoing costs of day-to-day operations (administrative/overhead). This type of support can free nonprofits to become more strategic about how they address community issues, craft internal solutions to enhance effectiveness, and build organizational infrastructure.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The Miller Foundation: Education Grant aims to ensure equitable opportunities for all Oregon students. It provides funding for K-12 education organizations that create supportive learning environments and prioritize student engagement, especially for those from underserved communities. The grant encompasses a variety of programs, including arts education and early childhood initiatives, while emphasizing the importance of family and community involvement. Organizations may apply for single or multi-year grants, fostering long-term partnerships to enhance educational equity across the state.

The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles County, focusing on enriching cultural experiences, education, health services, and human services. By prioritizing general operating support and capital projects, the Foundation aims to empower local organizations to address diverse community needs, fostering civic engagement and leadership. With a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations, the Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping a brighter future for Southern California.

The Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust provides grants primarily to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations in Iowa and parts of Illinois. Focused on enhancing educational opportunities, the Trust supports projects in elementary and secondary education, higher education, medical research, youth services, and recreation. By funding innovative initiatives, it aims to improve access to educational resources and foster scientific advancement, while also addressing the recreational needs of youth and supporting community development.

The Gene Haas Foundation Community Grants aim to support 501(c)(3) organizations in Ventura, Clark, and Cabarrus Counties focused on providing essential services to underserved populations, especially children and the elderly. With over $30 million in funding since 1999, the Foundation prioritizes local charitable initiatives that enhance community welfare. Importantly, grants cannot be used for equipment purchases or individual support, ensuring that funds directly benefit community needs.

The Roy & Christine Sturgis Charitable Trust, established in 1981, supports educational, cultural, and health care initiatives in Arkansas and Texas. With a focus on one-year grants, it promotes capital projects, medical research, and endowment campaigns. Organizations in Texas, especially in the Dallas area, receive strong preference. Ineligible applicants include those who have recently received grants from other foundations or multi-year grants, which require a two-year wait before reapplying.

The Red Wing Shoe Foundation's RWSF Direct Grants aim to enhance community well-being by supporting non-profit organizations that serve areas where employees live and work. Grants focus on education, arts, environmental protection, and youth development, especially for at-risk individuals. The foundation values inclusivity and does not discriminate based on race, gender, or disability, ensuring that their contributions positively impact local communities.

The Joseph R. & Mercedes McMicking Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for children and families in the San Francisco Bay Area. It focuses on charitable giving, supporting educational programs in arts, technology, education, and science. The foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, promoting access to resources and tuition assistance for local pre-K-12 schools. This initiative strengthens community ties and nurtures the next generation's growth through diverse educational opportunities.

The Atkinson Foundation Grant Program aims to empower individuals in San Mateo County by enhancing educational, social, and economic opportunities. It prioritizes community-led organizations that serve marginalized populations, including children, youth, and families. The foundation focuses on direct service delivery in areas such as education, mental health, and basic needs, ensuring support for the most vulnerable residents. By fostering independence and self-sufficiency, the foundation is committed to improving the overall quality of life in the community.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The William J. Brace Charitable Trust Grant supports educational, cultural, human services, and health care initiatives, focusing on the well-being of children and older adults, as well as hospitals in Kansas City, Missouri. Established in 1958, this private funder emphasizes general operating and program support for eligible organizations. Note that capital support requests are not considered. Grants typically last for one year, aiding community improvement and capacity building.

The Small Grants That Enrich Communities Grant Program, supported by The Amcor Cares Foundation, aims to enhance community welfare through funding for various initiatives. Eligible organizations include 501c3 designated nonprofits and accredited educational institutions. The program supports youth sports, educational enrichment, and community events, while it does not accept applications from individuals or political organizations. Committed to community development, Amcor Cares has been actively contributing since 1959.

The Carls Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing children's welfare in Michigan and preserving natural areas. It supports non-profit organizations that are innovative and effective in their missions. Grant types include capital grants and seed money for multi-year projects. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status. The foundation prioritizes health care programs, recreational opportunities for disadvantaged children, and environmental education, while excluding funding for individuals, endowments, or special events.

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Georgia through investments in education, health, and economic opportunities. They prioritize funding for higher education institutions in Georgia, aiming to improve access and foster innovation. The Foundation does not support K-12 education, athletic facilities, or endowments. Successful applicants typically exhibit strong leadership, sustainable operations, and measurable community impact, ensuring their initiatives align with the Foundation's mission.

The Lettie Pate Evans Foundation Grant Program primarily supports education and arts initiatives in Georgia, with occasional grants to Virginia institutions linked to Mrs. Evans. The foundation emphasizes community-driven projects with strong leadership, preferring to collaborate rather than serve as the sole funder. Grants are typically awarded for capital needs, historic preservation, and performing arts, targeting well-established organizations that demonstrate a proven track record of success and community support.

The Pacific Power Foundation provides Education/STEM Grants aimed at enhancing community vitality through charitable investments. With over $1 million awarded in 2021, eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth organizations. The foundation emphasizes initiatives in electrical safety, energy efficiency, and workforce development. Grants are available in four cycles to ensure thorough evaluation of requests. Exclusions apply to organizations that discriminate or operate outside the service areas of Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power.

The Cameron Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-Cities area by funding initiatives that address health care access, human services, economic development, education, and cultural preservation. Grants support organizations serving low-income populations and emphasize collaboration, sustainability, and community-driven solutions. By focusing on innovative approaches and inclusivity, the Foundation seeks to create lasting impacts that empower residents and foster vibrant communities.

The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation Grant Program focuses on enhancing the vitality of Indianapolis through targeted grantmaking in education, health, and economic development. The program prioritizes support for tax-exempt organizations that align with its goals, addressing critical issues such as public health, academic outcomes, and workforce development. By fostering collaboration and sharing data-driven insights, the Foundation aims to create a more vibrant, equitable city where all residents can thrive.

Washington Gas Charitable Giving has supported communities for over 170 years, focusing on education, environmental protection, and health initiatives. Their Bright Futures program emphasizes educational activities for youth, while Environmental Champions promote cleaner ecosystems. Healthy and Safe Communities target health organizations and energy assistance for low-income residents, ensuring well-being during extreme temperatures. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply for specific program funding in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County offers Strategic and General Grants aimed at fostering sustainable community improvements. Strategic Grants focus on key aspirations identified through community conversations, such as affordable housing and inclusive initiatives. General Grants support a variety of programs, including health services and education. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations benefiting Carroll County residents. The Foundation emphasizes quality applications and innovative projects that demonstrate community impact.

The Harold K.L. Castle Foundation is dedicated to strengthening Windward O‘ahu communities by investing in their rich cultural heritage, youth, and natural resources. The foundation aims to enhance educational outcomes for local youth, ensuring they graduate high school with essential skills and support their future success in STEM fields. By fostering collaboration and innovation among organizations, the foundation seeks to build sustainable capacity within the region, ultimately contributing to the vitality and resilience of its communities.