Best K–12 Education Grants

The Oriental Trading Company Corporate Giving Program focuses on enhancing the lives of children through education, youth programming, healthcare, and human services. With a commitment to making the world a better place, they support organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or public educational institutions. Their initiatives aim to foster community partnerships and provide essential resources to youth in need, ensuring they have access to vital services and opportunities for growth.

The Chintimini Fund, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, provides grants between $3,000 and $7,000 to support enrichment programs for high-potential students in specific Oregon counties. Eligible applicants include schools, public agencies, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The fund aims to engage talented and gifted students through innovative program strategies, ensuring they receive the support and resources necessary to thrive academically and personally.

The Lilja Family Fund Grant, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, supports communities in south Douglas County, offering approximately $40,000 annually for competitive grants. Targeted projects focus on K-12 and early childhood education, youth development, literacy, culture, and community initiatives. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with an emphasis on proposals that provide direct student services rather than traditional educational funding. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

The Charlotte Martin Foundation prioritizes funding for rural BIPOC organizations focused on youth programs, emphasizing education, athletics, and cultural expression for ages 6-18. Grants support initiatives that enhance access to diverse experiences, educational opportunities, and sports programs. The foundation is committed to addressing inequities in funding distribution, ensuring resources reach non-dominant communities. Organizations must be based in the Western states and demonstrate a commitment to racial equity and diversity in their leadership and programming.

The Mortenson Family Foundation is dedicated to expanding opportunities for children and families living in poverty by promoting equitable access to education, social development, and mental health resources. By partnering with nonprofit organizations and public schools, the foundation aims to empower communities through culturally relevant learning practices and strong engagement with families. Their focus on racial equity and sustained support for children from prenatal to 18 years ensures a holistic approach to overcoming the barriers faced by underserved populations.

The Lenny Zakim Fund Grant aims to empower grassroots organizations throughout eastern Massachusetts by providing unrestricted funding up to $20,000 to those with annual budgets under $350,000. The Fund prioritizes historically marginalized communities and supports initiatives focused on social, economic, and racial justice. With core values rooted in love, diversity, and grassroots leadership, the Fund seeks to foster relationships and create lasting change in the community. This commitment to equity and inclusion is essential for building a more just society.

Speedway Children's Charities provides critical support to children in need, focusing on those in Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties. Since its inception in 1982, SCC has distributed over $72 million in grants, with $4 million allocated in 2024 alone. The organization prioritizes assistance for the homeless, orphans, and victims of sex trafficking, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive despite their circumstances. Through various fundraising events, SCC empowers local nonprofits dedicated to improving children's lives.

The Booth Ferris Foundation, established in 1957, focuses on improving K-12 education in New York City by providing capacity building support to organizations with annual budgets over $1 million. They fund charitable organizations exempt from federal taxes under Section 501(c)(3) and do not consider proposals from private foundations or individuals. Key restrictions include a focus on local projects and a minimum of three years between grant awards.

The Orville W. Forté Charitable Foundation supports organizations aiding disadvantaged youth in Greater Boston. Grants primarily focus on general operating and program support, with occasional funding for equipment or capital needs. Eligible applicants must provide recent financial statements, including audited reports if available, and proof of 501(c)(3) status. The foundation aims to foster growth and development within the community by empowering youth through various initiatives.

The Beaches Community Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations serving the Beaches communities from Mayport to Guana. Priority is given to initiatives addressing basic needs, educational support for K-12 students, early learning opportunities for low-income families, and transportation needs for residents. This grant aims to uplift the community by targeting essential services and enhancing the quality of life for those in need.

The Youth Philanthropy Board Grant in Sussex County aims to support nonprofits that enhance family success, particularly for at-risk families facing mental health challenges, violence, and food insecurity. In 2026, the grant will also provide funding for educational support and recreational activities, ensuring that families have access to essential services that promote stability and growth.

The Ribbons of Hope Grant, awarded annually by the Ribbons of Hope Foundation since 2012, aims to enhance the lives of women and children through education, health, economic independence, social well-being, and human rights initiatives. Non-profit organizations with a strong operational history and a commitment to impactful programs are encouraged to apply for this $100,000 grant, which supports both ongoing and self-sustaining projects.

The Peoria Diamond Club Grants Program aims to support local youth in achieving educational, athletic, therapeutic, and artistic goals. It provides funding for individual projects, as well as group initiatives by non-profit organizations and schools. Eligible applicants must be local organizations with appropriate tax status, and grants cover direct costs associated with projects. However, funds cannot be used for operating deficits or personal benefits. This program encourages community engagement and youth participation.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant supports educational programs that enhance community quality of life. Focused on fostering self-sufficiency and job readiness, the Foundation values strong relationships and employee engagement. By funding diverse non-profit initiatives, it aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education and that communities thrive through enhanced educational opportunities. Currently, applications are invited only, aligning with their commitment to impactful community partnerships.

The Salad Bars to Schools Grant, initiated by the Chef Ann Foundation, aims to provide salad bar equipment to U.S. schools, enhancing children's access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Launched in 2010, this initiative tackles childhood obesity by ensuring nutritious options in school meals. Eligible applicants receive technical support and free enrollments in educational courses to maximize the impact of their salad bars. By promoting healthy eating habits, the program strives to improve children's overall health and well-being.

The Iredell County Community Foundation Grant Cycle aims to enhance the community by supporting local initiatives in areas such as education, human services, and workforce development. The foundation prioritizes one-time funding for projects that demonstrate collaboration and sustainability. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and institutions serving Iredell County residents. Ineligible projects include capital campaigns and direct support for individuals. This grant fosters community growth and engagement through philanthropy.

The Adams Cheshire Educational Partnership (ACE) Grant aims to enhance educational experiences for students and teachers in the Adams-Cheshire Regional School District. This grant supports projects that promote excellence in education, prioritizing volunteer-driven proposals. Eligible applicants include students, teachers, and community members, while projects may range from independent studies to professional development. Importantly, ACE does not fund salaries or replace public school funding, ensuring that resources are directed towards enriching educational initiatives.

The DKG Mini Grants, funded by the Blanche Martin Mini Grant Fund and the Lana P. Smith Memorial Fund, support educators in Boone and Winnebago Counties. This year, eight $250 grants will be awarded to enhance classroom activities or educational materials. Eligible applicants are qualified educators currently teaching in these counties, with additional criteria for female applicants seeking support from the Lana P. Smith Memorial Fund. Applications are welcomed for both grants with a single submission.

The Teacher Creativity Fellowship Program by Lilly Endowment supports K-12 educators in Indiana by providing grants up to $15,000 for renewal projects. These projects aim to restore educators' enthusiasm and stimulate creativity, enhancing student educational experiences. The program encourages meaningful exploration and reflection rather than typical vacations. Approximately 125 grants will be awarded in 2025, with a focus on activities that are intellectually enriching and personally renewing.

The Elsie Beavers Carver and E. Lois Carver Educational Fund Grant supports K-12 educational programs in Horry and Georgetown Counties. It aims to enhance children's learning experiences in core subjects such as language arts, math, and the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The fund provides resources for equipment, supplies, and special projects, ensuring that no qualified individual is excluded from participation based on various factors.

The Philip L. Graham Fund Grant focuses on enhancing the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area through substantial annual grants to 501(c)(3) public charities. It supports diverse initiatives in health, education, arts, and community development, prioritizing innovative, one-time projects. Eligible organizations must serve local residents and align with the Fund's giving priorities. Notably, the Fund awarded $4.1 million in 2017 to 138 organizations, with a strong emphasis on health and education, reflecting its commitment to community enrichment.

The Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of Arlington youth through significant financial contributions. They provide grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that focus on youth programs in areas like athletics, health, education, and the arts. Recently, a $1 million donation supported the North Texas Youth Education Town, which offers educational and recreational services. This initiative aims to create a sustainable impact on the community and support local youth for years to come.

The Send A Kid To Camp Grant, offered by Triangle Community Foundation, aims to support K-12 students in North Carolina's Triangle region by addressing unfinished academic learning due to pandemic-related disruptions. With grants of $10,000 per year for two years, this initiative focuses on collaborating with local nonprofits to enhance educational opportunities for students facing significant barriers. The program is designed to engage families and provide necessary resources to ensure students meet grade-level expectations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Laird Norton Family Foundation, based in Seattle, prioritizes grants that reflect family values in arts education, climate change, human services, and watershed stewardship. Their approach emphasizes equitable educational opportunities, carbon sequestration, support for youth at risk of homelessness, and long-term ecological health. They focus on organizations that address social justice and community needs, particularly in King County, WA, and the West Coast. Note: No unsolicited applications are accepted.