Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Oklahoma

The Women’s Foundation of Oklahoma is launching its 2025 grant cycle aimed at empowering women and girls across the state. This initiative emphasizes collaboration among nonprofits, educational institutions, and communities to address critical issues and maximize impact. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits in good standing or higher education institutions, provided they have representation at the 2025 WFO Convening. This grant cycle seeks to drive meaningful change and foster sustainable development in Oklahoma.

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

The Communities Foundation of Oklahoma stems from the vision of Tom McCasland Jr., and Gene Rainbolt. Two decades ago, these gentlemen formed a shared vision to create a single philanthropic organization to serve the charitable needs to rural communities across the great state of Oklahoma. Today, CFO has grown to assist hundreds of efforts in more than 45 counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

CFO offers over 100 diverse scholarship opportunities, empowering students across the state to pursue their educational goals. Each scholarship is tailored to meet unique needs, making higher education more accessible for all.

Madeline M. Bills Memorial Scholarship

The Madeline Marie Bills Foundation Scholarship Program is aimed at providing financial assistance to young women who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and will play basketball at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in the upcoming fall semester. The scholarship is named after Madeline M. Bills, a person who dedicated her life to helping others. The scholarship will be awarded to those who best meet the criteria.

The AMA Foundation Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship, named in honor of Dr. Lin and Minta Hill Alexander, offers $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students in their final year of school. Open to all students regardless of AMA membership, it specifically targets those attending accredited medical schools in Oklahoma. This initiative continues the AMA Foundation's legacy of supporting diverse medical students, having distributed over $61 million in scholarships since 1950.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Engineering - New Program In Partnership With Ardagh Group

Ardagh Group has partnered with PLTW to support education in its local communities where Ardagh employees live and work. This partnership recognizes the critical role education, and access to education, plays in ensuring equal opportunities and in building successful, vibrant communities. It is expected that over the next 10 years, Ardagh sponsored education programs will benefit more than 500,000 PreK-12 students as well as delivering best-in-class teacher training to more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools in Ardagh's U.S. communities.

Ardagh is a global supplier of sustainable packaging solutions with 16,000+ employees worldwide, and proud local employer.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Engineering program. Grantee must offer the PLTW Engineering program for three academic years. Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete three years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The Regional Touring Grant Program, funded by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, supports organizations in the M-AAA region to showcase touring artists from outside their state. Grants up to $5,000 are available, with organizations eligible for matching funds and the capacity to submit multiple applications. Projects are designed to enhance arts programming and engage underserved audiences through public-facing events, including performances and outreach activities. This initiative aims to foster cultural exchange and deepen community connections through the arts.

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.

The Artistic Innovations Grant Program, supported by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, provides up to $15,000 to artists and arts organizations in the M-AAA six-state region. This initiative fosters creativity by funding the development and premiere of original works, encouraging innovative projects that engage local audiences. Eligible applicants include individual artists and nonprofit organizations, promoting a vibrant arts community through financial support for artistic exploration.

The Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma, established in 1992, focuses on the welfare of small animals. It provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for care, shelter, food, and veterinary services for stray and injured pets. Typically awarding 2-3 grants annually, this foundation aims to support charitable organizations in Oklahoma dedicated to animal protection.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Audie Baker Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must be an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in education with an emphasis on special education at Northeastern State University with a minimum 3.0 GPA. This is a one-year scholarship awarded in the fall semester, reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Oklahoma provide essential funding to help rural communities prepare for or recover from emergencies threatening safe drinking water. These grants support projects like waterline repairs or new water sources, with funding up to $1 million. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations in rural areas. This initiative aims to ensure access to clean water and bolster community resilience after disasters, improving overall public health and environmental conditions.

Mid-America Arts Alliance

Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA) believes art can be a catalyst for expression, connection, collaboration, and community. This philosophy is reflected in our mission and values.

M-AAA is a nonprofit, regional arts organization representing Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond. We focus on strengthening communities and improving lives by supporting artists, elevating arts organizations, and connecting people to extraordinary cultural experiences.

Artistic Innovations Grants for Individual Artists

Program Objectives

The Artistic Innovations program supports the development of new or original works of art across all disciplines, created exclusively by in-region individual artists and art-based organizations in M-AAA’s six-state region (Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and the Native Nations in this geography). Eligible applicants include individual artists and nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organizations in the region.

Individual Artist Grant Considerations

The Artistic Innovations grant program supports direct project expenses incurred in the art-making process and production of public-facing engagements to individuals through private funds. These grants are funded through private support and, unlike Artistic Innovations grants to organizations, are not supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Gordon J. Barnett Memorial Foundation, established in 1955, supports educational initiatives in Florida, Indiana, New York, and Oklahoma. It prioritizes funding for tax-exempt organizations, including primary schools, universities, and trade schools. The foundation does not fund political campaigns or individuals. Grants are aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and preventing cruelty to children and animals, reflecting the foundation's commitment to charitable and educational purposes.

The OVAC Professional Basics Grant supports Oklahoma artists by funding essential aspects of their art practice, including quality samples, display, and travel. Grants of up to $500 help artists develop their professional practices and engage in community projects. Eligibility requires applicants to be over 21 and have at least 12 months of residency in Oklahoma. This grant aims to empower visual artists, curators, and art writers to enhance their creative projects and visibility.

The OAC Creative Aging Partnership Grant aims to enhance arts education for older adults in Oklahoma. This program provides funding for workshops and artist residencies, fostering community connections and promoting health benefits. Organizations can receive up to $30,000, with a 1:1 match requirement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions. This initiative supports creative aging opportunities, encouraging lifelong learning and engagement among seniors, ultimately improving their quality of life through the arts.

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 OAC Expanded Arts Education Grants for Schools support arts education programs in Oklahoma that occur outside regular school hours. Schools can apply for up to $2,500 annually with a 10% cash match. These grants enhance academic performance, increase student engagement, and promote civic involvement. Arts education fosters creativity and critical thinking, benefiting students in various subjects. The program encourages sequential, hands-on learning led by qualified educators to provide meaningful arts experiences for students.

The OAC Essential Arts Education Grants for Schools supports Oklahoma schools in enhancing arts education programs during the school day. Schools can apply for up to $5,000 per year, fostering significant improvements in academic performance and student engagement. Arts education develops essential skills, promotes creativity, and encourages civic responsibility. With a focus on hands-on learning led by qualified educators, these grants aim to expand access to various art forms, benefiting both students and the broader community.

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.

The Oklahoma Arts Council offers Classroom Supply Grants for Visual and Performing Arts, providing up to $500 annually for schools to purchase essential art supplies. This funding addresses the critical need identified by teachers for effective visual and performing arts education, enabling schools to maintain valuable programs that enhance student learning and creativity. Applications are due by August 22, 2025, and require a user account in the Fluxx grant portal.

The OAC Community Arts Experience Grants, offered by the Oklahoma Arts Council, support community vitality through funding for arts-based projects such as festivals and exhibitions. These grants aim to enhance cultural opportunities for Oklahomans and require a 100% match. Organizations may apply for two grants annually, with a maximum award of $5,000. This program fosters engagement and preserves cultural heritage, replacing the previous Small Grant Support program as of September 1, 2023.