Clinton and Nancy Schilling Technical Educational Grant Program

The Schilling Technical Educational Grant Program provides targeted funding for technical and vocational education initiatives in southwest Missouri. Administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks and held by the Lockwood Community Foundation, this grant opportunity supports programs that directly benefit residents of Barton, Dade, and Jasper counties. The total funding pool for this cycle is $185,000, with individual grants of up to $50,000 available to qualifying nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and municipal entities. Established through a planned gift from Clinton and Nancy Schilling, the fund was created to improve access to workforce development and skills-based training in the region. The Schillings, both longtime supporters of education and community advancement, donated farmland from four counties—Barton, Dade, Jasper, and Lawrence—to establish the Schilling Community Fund. The fund also supports local scholarships and designated grants for Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lockwood. Funding priorities for the Schilling Technical Educational Grant Program include classroom equipment and materials for hands-on learning, curriculum development, educator continuing-education stipends, and student participation in trade shows, competitions, or conferences. Facility renovations and capital requests are also considered, especially when they represent the final phase of an ongoing capital campaign. The application period is currently open, and submissions are due by 11:45 PM on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Applications must be submitted through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks' online grant portal at cfozarks.org/applyforgrants. All applications should clearly outline how the proposed use of funds will support technical or vocational education within the eligible tri-county area. Projects should align with at least one of the program’s stated priorities. For questions or technical support during the application process, applicants can contact Latesa Carter, Community Impact Coordinator at the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. Ms. Carter can be reached at lcarter@cfozarks.org or by phone at 417-864-6199. Awards will be administered following a competitive review process, and selected recipients must adhere to the reporting and accountability requirements of the foundation. The Schilling Technical Educational Grant Program reflects the Schillings' legacy of community investment and educational empowerment and serves as a lasting resource for vocational and skills-based learning opportunities in the rural areas of southwest Missouri.

Prioritize classroom equipment, student enrichment, and curriculum development. If applying for capital support, clarify campaign status.