Best Higher Education Grants in Oklahoma

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.

BOK Charitable Contributions aims to enhance community life and economic wellbeing across several states, focusing on four key pillars: United Way, economic development, education, and basic needs. The foundation supports organizations that address poverty, education, and community health. Their strategic approach ensures impactful contributions, and they welcome grant applications year-round. BOK Financial's commitment is evident in its partnerships with local nonprofits, fostering sustainable growth and development in the regions they serve.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Oklahoma State Department of Education

The Oklahoma State Department of Education is the state education agency of the State of Oklahoma charged with determining the policies and directing the administration and supervision of the public school system of Oklahoma. The State Board of Education is composed of the Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction and six members appointed by the Governor of Oklahoma with the approval of the Oklahoma Senate. 

Together with the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, the Department forms the core of Oklahoma's public education system.

Oklahoma Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant

The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is pleased to announce the acquisition of a substantial grant totaling $58.9 million, with $11,228,650 allocated for the first year. This grant, awarded through the Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant Program, will fund a transformative initiative in line with Oklahoma’s Comprehensive Literacy Plan. The initiative's primary objective is to enhance school readiness and improve language and literacy success among disadvantaged students throughout the state.

OCLSD Grant Overview

As part of this initiative, twenty districts across Oklahoma have been awarded subgranted funds to support the implementation of literacy programs specifically designed for their student populations, birth through grade 12. These subgrants will enable schools to improve literacy instruction, offer targeted interventions, and build a stronger foundation in language arts for their students.

The project aims to achieve the following key objectives:

• Early Language Development: Increase the percentage of participating four-year-old children making significant gains in oral language skills.
• Elementary Literacy Proficiency: Increase the percentage of participating fifth-grade students who meet or exceed proficiency levels on the Oklahoma State Testing Program (OSTP) English Language Arts (ELA) Assessment.
• Middle School Literacy Proficiency: Increase the percentage of participating eighth-grade students who meet or exceed proficiency levels on the OSTP ELA Assessment.
• High School Literacy Proficiency: Increase the percentage of participating eleventh-grade students who meet the college readiness benchmark in reading and English on the ACT.
• Teacher Training and Professional Development: Provide extensive training for Oklahoma teachers in the science of reading and effective literacy instructional strategies to ensure high-quality literacy education statewide.

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)

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.

The City of Muskogee Foundation offers summer grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Muskogee through funding for nonprofit organizations, schools, and community projects. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote education, arts, health, and economic development. Grants are awarded based on measurable outcomes and community needs, focusing on job creation, educational empowerment, and health initiatives. This effort fosters collaboration and innovation to create sustainable improvements for residents.

The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation Grant supports public charities with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on capital projects that enhance community life in states where Ash Grove operates. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and human services, the Foundation prioritizes funding for renovation and construction projects. Grants typically reach up to $25,000, aiming to foster better living standards and support local initiatives that are vital for community growth and resilience.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Southern Oklahoma Memorial Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in southern Oklahoma by providing funding for healthcare, education, and social services. Established in 1950, this foundation plays a vital role in enhancing community welfare. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations operating within a 50-mile radius of Ardmore. Grant applications are accepted quarterly, with deadlines on December 1, March 1, June 1, and September 1. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for area residents.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The City of Muskogee Foundation provides essential grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents through various initiatives in education, health, and economic development. Established in 2008, the foundation focuses on funding programs that drive community revitalization and support nonprofits. Key funding areas include economic development, education, health and wellness, and quality of life improvements. Grants are awarded based on measurable outcomes, ensuring a lasting impact on the community.

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.

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.

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 Arts in Alternative Education Community Partnership Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Oklahoma to enhance arts education for students in alternative education settings. By facilitating artist residencies, field trips, and quality arts programs, the grant aims to improve student engagement and graduation rates. Eligible arts-focused nonprofits can receive funding up to $30,000, promoting creative self-expression and educational success among at-risk youth. This initiative addresses barriers faced by these students, fostering skills through diverse arts experiences.

The Oklahoma 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in low-performing schools. By providing academic enrichment, after-school activities, and family engagement, this program supports students in meeting Oklahoma's academic standards. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, ensuring diverse participation. The initiative focuses on a collaborative approach to improve educational outcomes and foster community involvement in children's education.

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 Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, established in 1951 in Oklahoma, aims to support charitable organizations across the U.S., with a focus on education and local initiatives. Grants are awarded to qualified 501(C)(3) organizations, prioritizing projects that align with the foundation's mission in areas such as education, health, arts, and literacy. Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for funding, ensuring alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Oklahoma provide essential support for small rural businesses, offering technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests. Funds can be utilized for various purposes, including business planning, market research, and community development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing economic growth in rural areas. This initiative aims to empower local businesses and foster sustainable economic development.

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 Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation aims to alleviate poverty by funding nonprofits focused on housing, social services, healthcare, and community empowerment, primarily in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The foundation prioritizes grants for addressing homelessness, improving health services, supporting social services, and combating hunger. Additionally, it supports education and Jewish life initiatives, reflecting the founders' values of community upliftment and equality. With an annual budget of $7 million, the foundation seeks to create sustainable change for marginalized populations.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

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.