Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Missouri

Carney’s Kids Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults through financial support and positive publicity for non-profit organizations. By hosting community events and fundraising activities, the foundation partners with over 50 charities to enhance children's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Their mission includes providing educational assistance and supporting families in need, ensuring disadvantaged children have pathways to realize their potential. This commitment reflects a holistic approach to child welfare in the community.

The Financial Health and Asset Building Grant, provided by the St. Louis Community Foundation, aims to support organizations that deliver financial education and access to financial products for low-to-moderate income individuals, including ALICE households. This initiative focuses on enhancing economic mobility by equipping adults with essential financial skills and resources. By aligning with the foundation's Theory of Change, the grant seeks to create sustainable pathways for wealth building and financial independence.

The Innovation Grant to Expand a Child Care Program in Missouri aims to enhance access to quality child care for families by providing funding to licensed providers. This initiative, supported by the Child Care Development Fund, encourages business partnerships and community contributions to address the child care shortage. Eligible providers can utilize the funds for expansion, staff training, and facility improvements, ensuring compliance with state health and safety standards and promoting a robust workforce in early childhood education.

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is the administrative arm of the State Board of Education. It is primarily a service agency that works with educators, legislators, government agencies, community leaders and citizens to maintain a strong public education system. Through its statewide school-improvement activities and regulatory functions, the Department strives to assure that all citizens have access to high-quality public education. DESE does not regulate, monitor or accredit private, parochial or home schools.

The Department’s responsibilities range from early childhood to adult education services.

Innovation Grants

House Bill 2 (2025) allocated funds from Missouri’s Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) to be used towards innovation grants to increase access to high quality child care across Missouri during Fiscal Year 2026. These grants are available to child care providers in two forms:

• Innovation Grant to Start-Up a New Child Care Program for prospective child care providers wanting to start a new licensed child care program.
• Innovation Grant to Expand a Child Care Program for currently licensed child care providers.

Innovation Grant funds must be used to implement solutions to reduce the child care shortage in the state, including but not limited to the following:

• Funding for child care business start-ups or expansion
• Staff training and professional development
• Minor modifications or improvements to the facility that are required for licensing
• Incentives to retain employees
• Assistance with licensing and other regulatory requirements

Innovation Grant to Start-Up a New Child Care Program

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood, is offering the Innovation Grant to Start-Up a New Child Care Program to help providers open new, licensed child care programs to increase access to child care for families across the state. This opportunity provides funding support through matching business or community partnership contributions.

This is made possible using the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF), which is a state and federal partnership program that provides financial assistance to low-income families to access child care so that they can work or attend a job training or educational program. Missouri also uses CCDF to invest in quality to benefit thousands more children by building the skills and qualifications of the teacher workforce, supporting child care programs to achieve higher standards, and providing consumer education to help parents select child care that meets their family’s needs. For this reason, any facility applying for the grant must be CCDF eligible in order to receive payment(s).

The Rural Business Development Grants in Missouri support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. Eligible projects benefit rural areas outside urban centers with populations over 50,000. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, with no maximum grant amount. Grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land development, pollution control, and community economic development. This program aims to foster growth and sustainability in rural economies.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants program in Missouri provides vital funding to support organizations that assist low-income families in constructing their own homes. By enabling participants to contribute labor under professional supervision, the program fosters community engagement and skill development. Eligible organizations include government non-profits and federally recognized tribes. The grants aim to enhance self-sufficiency while addressing housing needs in rural areas, ultimately empowering families to achieve homeownership.

The Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant supports organizations seeking physical donations of materials that align with their focus areas, including safety, sustainability, workforce development, and thriving communities. This grant is available year-round, with no application deadline. Recipients must be located within Norfolk Southern territory and are encouraged to apply for resources that will enhance their community projects and initiatives, fostering growth and resilience.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Missouri offers vital funding to enhance essential community facilities in rural areas. Eligible projects include health care centers, public safety services, and educational institutions, targeting communities with populations under 20,000. With grants covering up to 75% of project costs based on income criteria, this program aims to foster community development and support local needs. Applications are accepted year-round, ensuring continuous assistance for rural projects.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Missouri provides essential funding for rural households and businesses to access clean drinking water, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage. This program aims to support areas that cannot secure commercial credit, helping eligible applicants such as local governments and nonprofits. Funds can be used for construction, improvements, legal fees, and equipment, ensuring a sustainable and reliable infrastructure for communities.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Allen, Mollie J and Nelson G Scholarship

This fund was established to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of Northwest Missouri intending to pursue a degree in education at a 2 or 4-year college/university or a Vocational degree/certificate at a 2-year college or Vocational/Technical School.

There are two types of this scholarship: Scholarship 1 and Scholarship 2

One recipient will be chosen for each scholarship. Scholarship 1 is awarded on an annual basis and is renewable for up to 4 years with disbursements in August and January. Scholarship 2 is awarded on an annual basis and is renewable for up to 2 years if needed. 

Scholarship 2

The students eligible shall be graduating seniors of a high school within the 18-county region of The Community Foundation intending to pursue a certificate/degree through an accredited two-year college or Vocational/Technical School. Students must submit a reference letter from a school staff or community member.

Scholarship 2 renewing students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher to be eligible.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Connors, Helen L Memorial Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Jim and Helen Connors by their family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors attending public and private schools in St Joseph, MO or Mid-Buchanan High School, majoring in nursing, music, law enforcement or theatre. Jim had many occupations throughout his life including actor, weatherman for KQ2, wresting announcer, but most notably retiring from the St Joseph Police Department as Commander after 33 years. Helen was a CRNA for 40 years and a lifelong musician. She specialized in piano and voice but also played the trombone.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Exchange Bank Scholarship

This fund was established by John Nixon to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of Mound City High School, MO. John is a 1958 graduate of Mound City High School and was one of the original recipients of the Exchange Bank Scholarship. It is his desire to provide scholarships for deserving young people to further their education just as he did

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

FDH Scholarship

This fund was established in honor of FDH by his family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of high schools within the 18- county region of The Community Foundation pursuing degrees in Agriculture, Business, or Health Care.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Forty and Eight Scholarship

This fund was established by World War I Veterans to provide academic scholarships to individuals obtaining a nursing or medical degree. Forty and eight refers to forty men and eight horses/mules to a French train boxcar during World War I.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August. 

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Harter, Cody Michael Memorial Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Cody Michael Harter by The Harter family and the 180th Airlift Squadron Association to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of St. Joseph, MO High Schools.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

The Cardinals Fly Together Worship Wednesday Grant Program offers matching grants to Southwest Missouri area churches and faith-based organizations, enabling them to bring groups to Springfield Cardinals home games during the 2025 season. This initiative aims to strengthen community bonds through shared experiences, including pre-game worship and fellowship. Grants can cover 50% or 25% of ticket costs, depending on the request. Applications are reviewed within 14 days, ensuring timely support for community engagement.

The A+ Scholarship Program, managed by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, offers financial assistance to graduates of A+ designated high schools who enroll in participating community colleges or vocational schools. This merit-based scholarship covers tuition and fees after non-loan federal aid has been applied, and eligibility requires maintaining academic standards and fulfilling certain attendance and mentorship criteria. It supports students in achieving educational and career success.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Coleman Scholarship

This fund was established to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of the St. Joseph School District. 

Scholarships will be awarded on a one-time basis and disbursed in August.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Cooper, Jerre Scholarship

This fund was established to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of the St. Joseph School District who plan to major in education. Scholarships are awarded on a one-time basis and disbursed in August.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Cornett, Jim Scholarship

This fund was established in recognition of Dr. Cornett’s dedication to Hillyard Technical Center and his life-long contribution to education. The fund provides academic scholarships to Hillyard Technical Center students.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Day, Roger Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Roger Day’s dedication to Hillyard Technical Center and his life-long contribution to education. The fund provides academic scholarships to Hillyard Technical Center students in the welding program.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation ECHO Scholarship

Established by ECHO to be awarded to a graduating second-year student that will be employed in the construction field after graduation from high school OR continuing postsecondary training in the field of construction.

The Delta Dental of Missouri Grant Program aims to improve oral health in Missouri by funding initiatives that reduce oral disease, enhance access to quality dental care, and raise awareness, particularly among underserved populations. Grants range from over $5,000 to $100,000 and are awarded for one year, focusing on projects that increase access to care and demonstrate matching funds from other sources.

Delta Dental of Missouri's Community Donation Program aims to enhance community health through charitable contributions, focusing on organizations that serve Missouri and South Carolina. Preference is given to those with an oral health component. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered, address the needs of at-risk populations, and be represented by an authorized member for support requests. This initiative underlines Delta Dental's commitment to community well-being and support.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Euler, Earl E and Elmyra J Leininger Memorial Scholarship

For any Central High School senior with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.