Champion Grants

The Champion Grants program is administered by the Alabama Power Foundation to support public school teachers in Alabama as they work to enhance college and career readiness for high school students in math and science. The program emphasizes professional development and instructional resources that strengthen teaching practices and improve student outcomes in grades nine through eleven. The funder prioritizes applications that demonstrate financial need, particularly from schools where at least half of the student population qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches or schools designated as Title I. The purpose of Champion Grants is to provide teacher teams with funding to pursue professional development opportunities that directly address instructional improvement in math and science. Funds may also be used for instructional resources and classroom technology, provided professional development is included in the proposal. Teachers are expected to collaborate across grade levels, commit to shared learning, and support one another in the adoption of improved practices. Applicants must also propose a clear method for measuring student achievement and identifying how grant-supported activities will lead to improved outcomes. Funding through Champion Grants is capped at $5,000 per teacher team. Eligible costs include professional development such as workshops, conferences, instructional coaching, or learning team participation, as well as resources and technology that enhance learning, such as manipulatives, assessment tools, laptops, projectors, or specialized STEM kits. However, grants will not be awarded to private schools, non-school organizations, or proposals unrelated to student achievement in math or science. Funds are awarded to schools directly and not to individuals, and recipient organizations must maintain tax-exempt status while adhering to nondiscrimination standards. There are two application cycles for 2025. The first cycle opens on March 24, 2025, and closes on April 25, 2025. The second cycle opens on August 4, 2025, and closes on September 5, 2025. Applications submitted on the final day cannot be modified, whereas those submitted earlier may be reviewed for compliance and corrected if necessary. This recurring cycle allows teachers multiple opportunities within a year to apply for funding aligned with professional development calendars and school year planning. Applicants must provide detailed information about their schools, including enrollment, tax identification, and the percentage of students receiving free or reduced lunch. Principals must supply their professional background, and teacher teams must provide their experience levels and certification information. The proposal must specify the student population to be impacted, the professional development to be pursued, associated costs, and a plan for evaluating both teacher and student outcomes. Required information is comprehensive, ensuring that each proposal demonstrates alignment with the program’s goals. The Alabama Power Foundation evaluates applications based on adherence to the stated guidelines and the degree to which the grant is expected to foster collaboration, professional growth, and measurable student achievement. While specific contacts such as email addresses or phone numbers are not provided in the grant announcement, the application process is managed through the Elevate Resource Center portal. The program is positioned as a strategic initiative to invest in teacher development and student readiness, reinforcing Alabama Power Foundation’s broader commitment to education and community development.