Best K–12 Education Grants

The Innovation in STEM Requests for Proposals, offered by Idaho National Laboratory, aims to bolster STEM education by providing up to $30,000 for projects that align with INL's mission and workforce development needs. The initiative emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, inviting proposals from educational institutions and organizations that strive to inspire Idaho's future STEM workforce. Each project is evaluated individually, ensuring a broad impact on K-12 education and innovation.

The MAGIP K-12 Education Grants support the integration of geographic information technologies in Montana's K-12 classrooms. Grants are available for curriculum development, teacher training, and equipment purchases to enhance geographic instruction. Up to two competitive grants will be awarded annually, promoting the use of GIS, GPS, and remote sensing. Recipients will also have opportunities to showcase their projects at the Big Sky GeoCon, fostering collaboration and innovation among educators and students in the geospatial field.

The Jack Buell Forest Education Grant, offered by the Idaho Forest Products Commission, aims to enhance forest education for Idaho's youth. Grants up to $1,000 are available for projects encouraging hands-on learning experiences in forests or related facilities. Eligible applicants include teachers and educators working with youth. Applications open on August 1 and close on October 15, with all projects required to be completed by July 31.

The KEF Minigrant program, offered by the Kennett Education Foundation, supports innovative educational projects for K-12 teachers within the Kennett Consolidated School District. Grants, capped at $300, are designed to enhance the educational experience and empower applicants to bring unique ideas to fruition. Eligibility is restricted to district employees, and applicants may submit only one request annually. This initiative encourages creativity in education while adhering to guidelines that prioritize impactful projects.

The Maine Department of Education is inviting proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) Grants, aimed at funding afterschool and summer programs for students from Pre-K to grade 12. This initiative supports partnerships that enhance academic performance and provide essential enrichment opportunities for students in economically disadvantaged areas, while also offering safe environments for families during non-school hours.

The Utah 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) Grants provide essential support to Local Education Agencies and Community-Based Organizations, focusing on students in high-poverty schools. These grants aim to enhance academic enrichment and offer a variety of services, including tutoring, youth development activities, and family literacy programs. With over 30 grants serving more than 6,000 students, this initiative plays a crucial role in improving educational outcomes in Utah.

The PATH Foundation offers Flexible Funding Grants of up to $75,000 for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Fauquier, Rappahannock, and Culpeper counties. These grants provide unrestricted operating support to enhance community health, childhood wellness, mental health, and senior services. The aim is to prioritize organizations that address critical needs and contribute to a healthy, equitable community. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to leadership, impact, and strong partnerships for community well-being.

The GAR Foundation's Educator Initiative Grant (EIG) supports innovative classroom projects in Summit County, enhancing teaching and learning since 2004. Grants range from $5,000 for individual classroom improvements to $10,000 for projects affecting multiple classrooms or departments. The EIG program encourages educators to develop impactful initiatives that foster student engagement and achievement. However, it does not fund stipends, furniture, standard supplies, or materials unrelated to curricular goals, ensuring that investments directly benefit educational outcomes.

The GAR Foundation provides essential funding for capital projects within Summit County, focusing on mission-critical initiatives such as new buildings or significant renovations. Eligible projects must align with GAR's strategic priorities in education, community development, and the arts. Organizations can apply for grants up to $50,000, with funds required to be utilized within 18 months. The next funding round will open in late 2026, promoting sustainability and community impact.

The Project Acceleration Notes and Credit Enhancement Alternatives (PANACEA) Program, funded by an $8 million federal grant, aims to enhance financing for California charter schools' facilities. This initiative supports the purchase, construction, and renovation of such facilities and operates alongside the Charter School Facilities Program. The program is designed to expedite the development of permanent charter school facilities by providing necessary credit enhancements, ensuring broader access to quality education for students.

The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation focuses on uplifting vulnerable populations through targeted grantmaking in Oklahoma, particularly the Tulsa area. Their mission emphasizes alleviating homelessness, improving healthcare access, supporting social services, and reducing hunger. Additionally, they provide funding for educational initiatives and community enrichment projects. The foundation prioritizes projects that empower individuals and foster community engagement, reflecting the founders' commitment to building a supportive and inclusive society.

The Burroughs Wellcome Fund's Career Award for STEM Teachers honors exceptional educators in North Carolina public schools. Offering $175,000 over five years, this award supports teachers with proven success in STEM education and encourages professional development. Special consideration is given to those in challenging classrooms and efforts to integrate climate change into curricula. This initiative aims to enhance STEM education across the state by empowering teachers as leaders and change agents.

The Freedom School Planning Grants, offered by the New Jersey Office of Faith Based Initiatives, aim to support organizations launching NJ Freedom Schools. These grants assist in developing organizational capacity and recruiting certified teachers to help students struggling academically. Additionally, they provide resources for a parent academy focused on employment readiness, mental health services, and connecting families to community resources, ultimately fostering academic success and community engagement.

The Spotlight Fund: Arts Grants support K-12 educators by providing funding for essential tools and materials to enhance art education. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes educators in high-needs schools, fostering creativity and reducing dropout rates among at-risk youth. By engaging children in various art forms, the initiative enriches their educational experience and opens up future possibilities. This targeted support is vital for cultivating a new generation of artists and creative thinkers.

The Spotlight Funds: Inclusive Classroom Grants support K-12 educators by providing financial assistance to acquire essential tools and materials for diverse classrooms. These grants address inequities based on race, gender identity, and ability, ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed. With awards ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes high-needs schools, empowering teachers to create inclusive learning environments that reflect their students' unique backgrounds.

The Spotlight Fund Grants aim to enhance racial equity in K-12 education by providing flexible funding to BIPOC educators. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, these funds are essential for sourcing tools and materials that support diverse student needs. As schools face budget cuts exacerbated by COVID-19, this initiative focuses on proven strategies that foster an inclusive learning environment for students of color, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive.

The Spotlight Fund Grants, specifically the STEM Fund, provide essential funding for K-12 educators to enhance their curriculum with necessary tools and materials for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. Aimed at supporting under-served communities, these grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 per educator, with a cap of $5,000 per school. Priority is given to educators from high-needs schools, ensuring equitable access to quality STEM education.

The PLTW Engineering Program Expansion grant, previously offered by Chevron in Mississippi, aimed to enhance educational opportunities in engineering for K-12 students. Since 2009, Chevron has invested over $24 million in PLTW programs across various states, impacting over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers. Although this grant is no longer available, it played a significant role in fostering STEM education and professional development for teachers in public and charter schools.

The Comis Foundation Grant aims to provide equitable opportunities for children to thrive through education and community engagement. It supports innovative programs that enhance educational outcomes, focusing on areas such as capacity building and pilot projects. With funding ranging from $5,000 to $75,000, the foundation prioritizes nonprofit organizations that foster inclusive environments. By emphasizing trust and collaboration, Comis Foundation strives to create lasting impacts in the communities it serves.

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 Community Investment Fund in Ft. Madison, IA, administered by Freeport-McMoRan, aims to foster sustainable community development through education, economic opportunity, and capacity building. The fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance local resilience and support individuals and organizations in navigating economic challenges. Eligible projects should directly benefit the community and typically require funding requests over $20,000. This initiative seeks partnerships that lead to transformative change and increased opportunities for residents.

The Herb Kohl Principal Leadership Award aims to honor and support exemplary school administrators in Wisconsin. Award recipients, including up to 17 principals annually, receive $6,000 grants for personal and school development. Eligible nominees are Pre-K through Grade 12 principals who are nominated by various stakeholders. The program fosters leadership excellence, enhancing educational experiences in Wisconsin's public and private schools.

The Herb Kohl Principal Leadership Award supports Wisconsin's private school principals and administrators by recognizing their leadership. Each year, up to four private school principals can receive a $6,000 grant, alongside a matching grant for their school. This award aims to help administrators achieve their professional goals and enhance their schools. Eligible nominees must be committed to their roles for the upcoming school year, and prior recipients may reapply if nominated.

The Brown County Public School Grant Fund, provided by the Tracy Family Foundation, aims to support educational initiatives for Pre-K through Grade 12 public school districts in Mt. Sterling, Illinois. This grant focuses on enhancing school instructional programs and is not available to individuals. Eligible districts are encouraged to apply for funding to foster innovative educational practices that benefit their students and overall community engagement.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.

The Hearst Foundation: Education Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that promote education across various levels, focusing primarily on higher education. With a minimum grant size of $100,000, the foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating significant impact and sustainability. They support innovative educational models, professional development, and scholarships, specifically targeting underserved populations. Since the 1940s, the foundation has evolved while maintaining its commitment to fostering healthy and productive lives for all individuals in the United States.

The NEA Foundation's Student Success Grants support educators in creating innovative learning experiences that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and cultural understanding among students. This initiative encourages project-based and personalized learning, enabling students to engage with real-world challenges. Applicants must be members of the National Education Association and can use grant funds for educational materials and experiences. The focus is on enhancing academic skills, communication, and collaboration, ultimately promoting joy in learning.