Best Grants for K-12 Schools in Washington

The Universal Leaf Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations primarily in areas where Universal Leaf Tobacco Company operates. Focus areas include education for at-risk individuals, higher education, civic/community arts, and environmental initiatives. The Foundation emphasizes good corporate citizenship and community engagement through financial support and employee volunteerism. Organizations must operate within designated geographic areas and cannot be involved in political advocacy or restrict services based on demographics. Grants aim to enhance community well-being and educational opportunities.

The Columbia County Children's Fund Grant, administered by Innovia Foundation, focuses on supporting local organizations that provide essential programs for children. Eligible applicants include public charities, federally recognized tribes, and public entities serving Columbia County. The grant prioritizes educational enrichment, counseling, and medical services for disadvantaged children. Innovia Foundation encourages applications from organizations within its 20-county region, ensuring that funding contributes to meaningful community impact.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

Ninety-nine Girlfriends offers annual Impact Awards ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 to nonprofits in the Portland Metro/SW Washington area. The grants focus on four key areas: educational equity for youth, environmental sustainability, housing stability, and women's economic empowerment. Emphasizing equity and trust-based philanthropy, they seek organizations that demonstrate a commitment to community impact and inclusivity. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) entities and fiscally sponsored groups, requiring a minimum annual revenue of $100,000.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The United Company Foundation, established in 1986, provides grants to support charitable organizations in Bristol, VA, Bristol, TN, and Southwest Virginia. This private non-profit focuses on areas such as food, shelter, education, the arts, health, and youth services, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and innovative approaches. By prioritizing accountability and measurable outcomes, the Foundation aims to foster long-term improvements in the community it serves.

The Seneca Foods Foundation Grant supports philanthropic initiatives focused on empowering youth and strengthening communities. Since 1988, it has provided funding for education, community assistance, and internships. The Foundation prioritizes organizations connected to Seneca employees, located near its operational facilities, and those that align with its mission. It requires documented performance results and considers only one request per organization annually, ensuring that grants foster measurable impact within the communities served.

The C4O Organizing Grant, offered by the National Education Association Staff Organization, supports collaborative strategic organizing projects. It provides resources for training, coaching, and workshops aimed at enhancing member engagement and addressing equity in education. Eligible projects include those that align with NEA Strategic Goals, fostering leadership among members on critical issues affecting their practice. This grant aims to empower educators and improve opportunities for all students.

The CAO Legislative Crisis Grant, funded by the National Education Association Staff Organization, is designed to support affiliates in creating and refining student-centered initiatives. Grants can be utilized for contract campaigns, new program development, or enhancing existing practices to improve sustainable learning conditions. This opportunity is exclusive to affiliates, ensuring a focused approach to advocacy and collective bargaining efforts that benefit students.

The Read Across America State Affiliate Event Grant supports NEA state affiliates in enhancing coordinated events that celebrate diverse reading. This grant encourages proposals aimed at providing students with access to diverse books, addressing challenges such as curriculum bans. Activities may include guest readings, establishing diverse book clubs, and promoting literacy through community engagement. Applications are open only to state affiliates, with a strong emphasis on year-round reading awareness.

The NEA Federal Rescue Implementation Network Grant provides up to $100,000 per year for two years to state affiliates for hiring a coordinator to implement the American Rescue Plan in support of public education. This funding is specifically for backfilling a position that must remain filled for at least ninety days, ensuring effective oversight of federal recovery initiatives within the affiliate.

The Knowles Teaching Fellowship supports emerging high school science and mathematics teachers in the U.S. Ideal candidates possess a strong academic background, leadership skills, and a commitment to teaching. The fellowship emphasizes comprehensive development through mentoring and financial support, including grants for classroom materials and stipends to alleviate financial burdens. By fostering a community of over 500 educators, the program aims to enhance teaching quality and sustainability in the profession over a five-year trajectory.

The Education Foundation for Cle Elum-Roslyn Grant supports innovative educational programs that enhance K-12 student learning in the Cle Elum-Roslyn School District. This non-profit organization focuses on STEM education, classroom technology, fine arts, and vocational initiatives. By bridging funding gaps, the foundation aims to provide students with the resources needed to excel academically and fosters out-of-the-box learning experiences that leave a lasting impact.

The NEA Foundation's Student Success Grants support educators in creating innovative learning experiences that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and cultural understanding among students. This initiative encourages project-based and personalized learning, enabling students to engage with real-world challenges. Applicants must be members of the National Education Association and can use grant funds for educational materials and experiences. The focus is on enhancing academic skills, communication, and collaboration, ultimately promoting joy in learning.

The Hearst Foundation: Education Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that promote education across various levels, focusing primarily on higher education. With a minimum grant size of $100,000, the foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating significant impact and sustainability. They support innovative educational models, professional development, and scholarships, specifically targeting underserved populations. Since the 1940s, the foundation has evolved while maintaining its commitment to fostering healthy and productive lives for all individuals in the United States.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.

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.

The Comis Foundation Grant aims to provide equitable opportunities for children to thrive through education and community engagement. It supports innovative programs that enhance educational outcomes, focusing on areas such as capacity building and pilot projects. With funding ranging from $5,000 to $75,000, the foundation prioritizes nonprofit organizations that foster inclusive environments. By emphasizing trust and collaboration, Comis Foundation strives to create lasting impacts in the communities it serves.

The Yass Prize & STOP Awards Initiative aims to revolutionize education by recognizing and supporting exceptional education providers focused on Sustainable, Transformational, Outstanding, and Permissionless (STOP) education. Established in 2021, the initiative awards funds to organizations serving Pre-K to 12th grade students across the United States, fostering impactful partnerships and innovative practices. With a commitment to transforming educational experiences, the initiative celebrates the vital work of educators in response to contemporary challenges.

The CDV5 Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations, churches, and government entities that meet IRS 501(c)(3) requirements. This grant aims to nurture successful children, foster stronger families, and cultivate healthier communities. Through partnerships, the foundation provides resources to help individuals reach their full potential. Applicants may submit one request annually for operating, capital, or program support, while event sponsorships are also considered. The foundation encourages applicants to consider their budget and history with the foundation when requesting funding.

The Beim Foundation's Regional Grant Program invites proposals from nonprofit organizations serving under-resourced communities in the U.S. for environmental education projects by 2025. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that address ethnic and racial inequality, heal community trauma, and provide culturally competent services. Grant amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000, supporting direct services to participants rather than staff training or curriculum development. Applications are limited to specific geographical areas.

The NewSchools: Learning Solutions Grant Program aims to empower K-8 students by enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, crucial for overcoming educational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With a focus on innovative learning solutions, the program seeks to fund early-stage ideas that engage students and support educators. By leveraging research and technology, including generative AI, it aims to create equitable educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for all students.

The Pets in the Classroom Grant Program provides financial support to educators in the US and Canada, enabling them to incorporate small animals into their classrooms. This initiative aims to enhance students' educational and personal development through direct interaction with pets. The program, established by the Pet Care Trust, invites applications from teachers, librarians, and other school staff who support student learning, fostering a nurturing environment for young learners.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.

The Voya Unsung Heroes Awards Program supports educators with innovative class projects that enhance student learning. Annually, 50 selected educators receive $2,000 each, with three top awards of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000. This initiative, backed by Voya Financial, aims to empower teachers in accredited K-12 schools across the U.S. to transform their ideas into impactful educational experiences, fostering creativity and engagement in the classroom.

The Oriental Trading Company Corporate Giving Program focuses on enhancing the lives of children through education, youth programming, healthcare, and human services. With a commitment to making the world a better place, they support organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or public educational institutions. Their initiatives aim to foster community partnerships and provide essential resources to youth in need, ensuring they have access to vital services and opportunities for growth.

Casey's Cash for Classrooms Grants support K-12 public and nonprofit private schools through funding for physical improvements, material needs, teacher support, and community engagement. In 2025, $900,000 was awarded across 80 grants, allowing schools to enhance their learning environments. With a commitment to community engagement, Casey's has donated $15 million since 2019, emphasizing their dedication to making life better for communities and guests. Grants range from $3,000 to $50,000, with funds required to be used within 12 months.