Best Grants for Preschools in Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grant supports rural fire departments in communities with populations under 10,000. Funded by the Oklahoma Legislature, this program reimburses 80% of eligible costs for firefighting equipment and construction projects. Legal entities such as towns and fire departments can apply, with specific funding limits for fire station construction and equipment purchases. The initiative aims to enhance fire protection services in rural areas, ensuring their operational readiness and safety.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

Zink Family Foundation

Supporting Oklahomans through education, fine arts, youth development, and the conservation and enjoyment of the outdoors since 1972. Since 1972, the Zink Family Foundation, originally the John Steele Zink Foundation, has contributed more than $100 million throughout Oklahoma.

Our Mission

The Zink Family Foundation is dedicated to building a brighter future for Oklahomans by empowering youth through education and leadership development while supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life in our community.

Our Focus

• Arts & Culture: The Zink Family has long supported Tulsa’s performing and fine arts community. We believe that the arts’ creativity and cultural influence are crucial to the city’s uniqueness.

• Community: We believe passionate people, empowered to make a difference, can change lives. This long-standing belief has driven financial contributions to numerous Oklahoma parks and community organizations, including Turkey Mountain, River West Festival Park, the Gathering Place, Tulsa Zoo, the Tulsa Library Trust, Tulsa Area United Way, Youth Services of Tulsa, and so many more.

• Education: In line with its mission to support higher education in Oklahoma, the Zink Family Foundation is committed to several local universities, including Oklahoma State University and the University of Tulsa. This support is demonstrated through dedicated scholarship programs, campus housing initiatives, and the development of educational centers.

• Youth Development: By investing in today’s youth, we are securing tomorrow’s leaders. For multiple generations, the Zink Family has believed in this truth. Through annual contributions to nonprofit organizations serving our youth, we encourage kids to develop life and leadership skills, explore vocational opportunities, and receive academic support to learn on par with their peers.

Grants

ZFF supports non-profit organizations and programs that are relevant to our mission. Our core areas include: Arts & Culture, Community, Education, and Youth Development.

Grant amounts vary by category and organization size. If you have previously received a ZFF grant, an amount in that same range is a good starting point.

The Sunstate Equipment Foundation Grants support local charities focused on disadvantaged individuals, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence awareness, military and veterans' assistance, and care for abused animals. Founded in 2015, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that matches employee contributions dollar for dollar, reinforcing its commitment to community support and engagement. Charities in good standing can apply once every 12 months, fostering impactful initiatives where Sunstate operates.

The Oklahoma Arts and the Military Grants aim to empower organizations to serve military-connected individuals through arts programs. Grants of up to $5,000 support learning-based and audience-based initiatives that engage active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. This initiative, part of the Oklahoma Arts and the Military Initiative, fosters greater accessibility to the arts for the military community, enhancing their well-being and connection through creative expression.

The Oklahoma Initiative Fund Grant, offered by the Communities Foundation of Oklahoma, aims to strengthen rural communities through funding of up to $15,000. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits serving populations of 50,000 or less, focusing on areas such as literacy, health services, and food insecurity. Preference is given to community-based organizations within these eligible areas, fostering impactful connections between philanthropists and local needs.

The OK Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports landowners and organizations in preserving wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural lands through conservation easements. With NRCS funding, eligible partners can receive financial assistance to protect agricultural land and its conservation values. This program has successfully safeguarded over 4.4 million acres, enhancing soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats while promoting sustainable farming practices and limiting non-agricultural land use.

The Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research (OCASCR) grants program supports innovative research in adult stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Established by the TSET in 2010, OCASCR aims to enhance research capabilities in Oklahoma, addressing critical health issues related to smoking and obesity. Eligible applicants include Principal Investigators from universities and research institutions, with a focus on projects that document unique funding needs. OCASCR welcomes inquiries regarding additional support mechanisms to foster research growth.

The NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

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.

Oklahoma preschools, K–12 schools, youth groups, and organizations with youth components can seek US $200 - US $1,500 to run environmental education projects involving students in Oklahoma. Grants from Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality help educators fund hands-on activities tied to curriculum on air, land, water, conservation, and related environmental topics.

The EDA Austin FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to bolster regional economic development by providing grants that assist eligible organizations in creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). This initiative seeks to enhance the economic prosperity and resiliency of distressed areas, ultimately fostering job creation for the unemployed and underemployed. It emphasizes partnership planning and supports organizations, including Indian Tribes, in driving effective economic development.

The Inasmuch Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives in Central Oklahoma, focusing on areas such as education, human services, and journalism. Established in 1982 by philanthropist Edith Kinney Gaylord, the foundation emphasizes community engagement and transparency in funding. Organizations can apply for general operating support grants, with amounts ranging from $50,000 to $100,000, and are encouraged to pursue partnerships in priority areas, including education reform and workforce development.

Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE), Adult Education and Family Literacy (AEFL) Division acts as the pass-through agency for the Adult Education Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) grants. The AEFLA, a federal law, can be found in Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

Part of the AEFLA’s stated purpose is to assist adults with becoming literate, obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency, and obtaining the skills necessary to lead to sustainable improvements in the economic opportunities of their family. In addition, to the federal grants provided under the AEFLA, ODCTE's AEFL team also administers adult education allocations supported with state funds. 

Adult Education & Family Literacy Grant

The Oklahoma Department of Career & Technology Education's Adult Education & Family Literacy federal programs division requests proposals for funding to implement AEFL programs. The purpose of this grant proposal is to fund programs that:

• Assist adults to become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and economic self-sufficiency.
• Assist adults who are parents or family members to obtain the education and skills that (1) are necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children; (2) lead to sustainable improvements in the economic opportunities for their family.
• Assist adults in attaining a secondary school diploma and in transitioning to postsecondary education and training, including through career pathways.
• Assist immigrants and other individuals who are English language learners in: (1) improving their (a) reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills in English and (b) mathematics skills; (2) acquiring an understanding of the American system of government, individual freedom, and the responsibilities of citizenship (AEFLA Section 202).

Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality

DEQ was created July 1, 1993 as Oklahoma’s primary environmental protection agency to administer state environmental laws and delegated federal programs protecting Oklahoma’s air, land, and water resources, and to administer programs related to sources of ionizing radiation. We do this through several core functions: permitting, compliance assurance, environmental assessment and monitoring, site cleanup, planning, and outreach.

Our mission reflects our unwavering commitment to you, the citizens of Oklahoma and the entities we regulate, that protecting our air, land, and water is paramount. We believe that you deserve optimal service with professionalism and integrity. To demonstrate this commitment, we are undertaking a bold, forward-thinking, multi-year transformation to genuinely reduce waste within the agency, increase transparency, and improve services. This transformation is guided by our TRUE NORTH – the guidepost behind every decision we make to continuously improve both our internal processes and services and Oklahoma’s natural resources.

Sharps Waste Management Grant

Sharps Management grant funding may be used to support better disposal options for used medical sharps, including purchasing materials related to collection (kiosks, totes, containers), pay for disposal services, and event/site preparation (education and outreach, advertising) to develop better disposal options for sharps in Oklahoma. Grant Recipients are required to submit appropriate invoices and to provide monthly photos and metrics documenting collection

The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers large grants over $15,000 to nonprofit organizations in central Oklahoma and the Pikes Peak region. It focuses on projects that enhance arts, education, health, and community well-being. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with the foundation's mission. Prioritization is given to organizations with a broad community impact and innovative programming. Note that requests for ongoing support or capital projects are not eligible. A Letter of Intent is required one month prior to the application deadline.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other

In an ongoing effort to support the recruitment and retention of CTE teachers, the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education supports the development of new innovative strategies and the enhancement of existing strategies to recruit and retain Oklahoma’s CTE instructors. The strategies developed with these funds should support a culture of continuous improvement that engages the whole school community in continuously using data to identify problems and develop plans to solve them. A tool like strong school culture is important to the recruitment and retention of CTE instructors in areas that meet local and state workforce needs while embracing innovative methods to support CTE instructors through rigorous professional development, continuing education, among other strategies. HSTW & TCTW grants must utilize 51% of funds on SREB resources or services.

James Avery Corporate Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations located within 50 miles of a James Avery retail or corporate location. The foundation prioritizes projects that enrich community life, focusing on arts, veteran services, and wellness. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with applications accepted once per year. Organizations must demonstrate community impact, effective management, and provide necessary documentation for eligibility. Note that certain types of funding, such as for individuals or for-profit organizations, are excluded.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Innovation in Career Exploration

Oklahoma Career and Technology Education supports innovative school improvement efforts to develop middle school STEM exploration programs that lead to increasing academic rigor and student achievement. STEM curriculum should provide project-based learning for the full range of students in grades seven and eight classrooms as well as career awareness and exploration activities for students in grades five, and six.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers Professional Service/Other Grants to non-profit organizations demonstrating sole-source service provisions and for unique projects outside standard DEQ categories. Funding is available on a reimbursement basis, covering 80% of eligible equipment costs, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Grantees must formalize agreements with DEQ prior to project initiation, ensuring compliance with reimbursement policies. This initiative aims to enhance environmental protection through targeted financial support.

The Disaster Resilience Program, supported by Equal Justice Works, aims to provide free civil legal aid to communities affected by disasters in the Midwest. With funding for attorney and summer law student fellows, the program addresses the unique legal needs of low-income families, helping them recover from the impacts of disasters. This initiative not only stabilizes lives but also promotes resilience in communities by ensuring access to essential legal services.

The BCBS Oklahoma - Blue Impact Grants support community-focused initiatives aimed at improving health and wellness in Oklahoma. These grants prioritize programs that enhance economic opportunity, nutrition, and overall health outcomes. Eligible organizations include community, civic, or charitable entities that benefit Oklahoma residents. The initiative emphasizes funding for health, wellness, and human services, while excluding requests related to discrimination, tuition, or political activities. This program fosters community growth through targeted financial support.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Environmental Officer Grants aim to combat illegal dumping in Oklahoma by providing funding up to $50,000 for salaries, equipment, and cleanup efforts. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations. The grants support part-time Environmental Officers and cover costs for supplies and labor. Monthly reporting on metrics like dumps identified and trash collected is required. Preference is given to agencies with prior enforcement experience and those not previously funded, promoting sustainable environmental practices.

The Kerr Foundation Inc. offers grants to 501(c)3 organizations, focusing on education, arts, health, and human services. Priority is given to Oklahoma entities, but applications from neighboring states and Washington D.C. are also accepted. The foundation supports various project types, including capital, program, and operating expenses. Note that back-to-back grants are not allowed, enforcing a three-year gap for reapplication after funding. This ensures a broad and impactful reach for community development.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.