The 2025 Innovator Grant, offered by the Innovative Technology Education Fund (ITEF), supports creative and groundbreaking approaches to K-12 education. The grant seeks projects that introduce fresh possibilities and opportunities for learning and teaching, aiming to inspire curiosity and excitement in classrooms or schools. The program emphasizes creativity, student-centered approaches, and interdisciplinary collaboration among educators.
The purpose of the Innovator Grant is to promote projects that prepare students for a future rich in technology while making learning dynamic and engaging. Applicants are encouraged to propose initiatives that are innovative, novel, and align with advancing technological competencies. The grant aims to measure the success of funded projects through various performance indicators beyond traditional test scores, such as engagement metrics, skill development, and innovative outcomes.
The funding scope includes a comprehensive budget that must be detailed in a narrative form with clear justifications for each expenditure. Professional development (PD) is a mandatory component, ensuring that educators involved in the project are well-prepared to implement and sustain the innovation. Applicants are required to outline their PD plans, including the timing, participants, and how the training aligns with the project's objectives.
Eligibility is restricted to accredited public, independent, and parochial schools in Missouri and Illinois, as well as licensed K-12 charter schools in the region. The grant prioritizes projects that engage students in the planning process, involve collaborative teams of educators, and align with the goals of active Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Schools must provide information about their student demographics, such as the percentage of students eligible for free or reduced lunch or financial aid.
Applicants must submit various documents, including a project summary, budget spreadsheet, budget narrative, project timeline, and letters of recommendation from key school leaders. Additional requirements include identifying key performance indicators, outlining student experiences within the project, and specifying how the initiative aligns with broader school or district goals. The application also asks for insights into the innovative nature of the project and its expected impact on student engagement and preparation for future technologies.
Evaluation criteria for the grant include the project's alignment with innovation and technological preparation, its ability to inspire student engagement, and the quality and feasibility of the submitted timeline and budget. The extent to which the project integrates professional development and aligns with the goals of PLCs is also assessed.
