Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Oklahoma

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 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 Equipment Grants program, managed by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, supports the purchase of solid waste management equipment valued between $5,000 and $50,000. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations in Oklahoma. This funding is intended for one-time purchases, with a requirement for storage and maintenance plans in applications. Ineligible items include buildings and vehicles, ensuring a focused investment in necessary equipment.

Collection Event Grants provide funding for the collection of electronic waste and other hazardous materials, including household hazardous waste, tires, and pharmaceuticals. Grants, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, support discrete collection events coordinated with certified recyclers and local authorities. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations in Oklahoma. The program promotes safe disposal practices and environmental stewardship, ensuring responsible management of e-waste and hazardous materials.

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.

The Oklahoma Healthy Food Financing Program, managed by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, aims to improve access to healthy foods in low and moderate-income communities. By providing financial support through loans and grants, the program encourages the establishment and renovation of food retailers, ensuring they accept SNAP and WIC benefits. This initiative not only boosts local economies but also promotes healthier food choices, fostering community well-being and sustainability.

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 Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality offers grants for Food Waste Management Projects aimed at reducing food waste through diversion efforts. Eligible applicants include governmental units, educational institutions, and non-profits that can demonstrate specific service provisions. Grants reimburse 80% of eligible equipment costs ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, with total funding amounts typically between $1,000 and $50,000. This initiative promotes sustainable practices while enhancing food recovery infrastructure in the community.

The Jack and Martha Carter Grant, offered by the Native Plant Society of New Mexico, supports projects that enhance public understanding of native plants and their conservation. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at educational, ecological, and botanical research initiatives. Both members and nonmembers are eligible, with a focus on practical, innovative proposals that align with the Society's mission. Applicants must report on their project outcomes, fostering accountability and continued support for environmental efforts.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital 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.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Commerce is a trusted government agency that partners with businesses and communities for strategic and sustainable growth and success, moving Oklahoma forward to becoming a top ten state. As a result of SB 1447 (2024 Oklahoma Legislative Session), Commerce has recently restructured to focus on two key areas of focus: Community Outreach & Revitalization Enterprise (CORE) and Economic Development, Growth & Expansion (EDGE).

Our job is to bring jobs, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Oklahoma Route 66 Grant

The Project 66 Grant was created to support the revitalization of the Route 66 experience in Oklahoma. We are deeply committed to preserving the cultural heritage of this historic highway and fostering economic growth in the local communities it traverses. With this grant, the Commission aims to assist in undertaking impactful initiatives that will enhance the visitor experience, preserve historical landmarks and contribute to sustainable economic development along Route 66 in Oklahoma.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The Oklahoma Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Fund Program aims to enhance the quality of care for nursing home residents by funding projects that address health and safety deficiencies. Organizations such as nursing homes, advocacy groups, and academic institutions can apply for grants to support initiatives that improve resident care and quality of life. Funding cannot be used for compliance-related expenses or normal operations, ensuring that it targets innovative quality improvement efforts.

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 Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The CHS Foundation supports initiatives that benefit the agriculture industry, focusing on 501c3 organizations within specific states. Their funding is aimed at empowering cooperative growth and sustainable practices. Local projects may also be eligible through the CHS Seeds for Stewardship program. However, funding is not available for individuals, sports teams, or religious groups, ensuring that the support remains directed towards community and cooperative development.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

P3 Pooled Finance Program

Allows communities to utilize the state’s Pooled Finance Program for infrastructure development

This Public-Private Partnership (P3) program facilitates local infrastructure development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies. Infrastructure development can include any critical infrastructure identified by local government entities contributing to the competitiveness of the region’s economy and essential for government functions.

P3 for Education and Workforce Development

Workforce development and access to skilled labor are critical factors for Oklahoma's companies to be competitive in the marketplace and for the continued success of the state's economic development efforts. Workforce boards, CareerTechs, colleges and universities have access to various tools that can help them obtain the necessary resources to develop a skilled workforce.

One of these tools is Oklahoma’s Public-Private Partnership for Education, a Public-Private Partnership (P3) program, that facilitates industry workforce development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies and is intended to enhance an industry’s competitiveness, enhancing the region’s and state’s economy.

Projects must begin within 6 months of application approval. Awarded funds will not cover 100% of project costs.

What are eligible projects?

Projects where a CareerTech, college or university is providing industry-focused training that must be developed collaboratively with employers in a common industry.

How may the training be delivered?

Workforce training/instruction may be delivered solely by the applying entity or in conjunction with other eligible entities, which may include entities subject to State Department of Education (K-12). For example, a CareerTech may collaborate with a K-12 institution to provide industry-specific skills training.

How does it work?

• For-profit entities in a common industry that would benefit from specific skills development can collaborate with an applying entity to identify the skills required, method of delivery and tools needed to provide instruction.

• The qualifying educational institution would be allowed to capture state withholding taxes associated with those for-profit companies for a defined term to assist with the costs of developing a program and delivering the instruction.

Uses of funds can include the below:

• Assist with construction/renovation; or
• Purchase machinery/equipment; or
• Purchase training program; or
• Hire instructors (contract basis)

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP)

The CDBG REAP Program was developed in partnership with the Substate Planning Districts (SSPD) to make a greater impact on each district by matching CDBG funds dollar for dollar on each project in their respective area.

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 Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

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 Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.