GTI Teacher Grants for Innovation in Georgia

The Teacher Grants for Innovation program is a funding initiative of the Georgia Teachers Initiative, administered by the Georgia Foundation for Public Education (GFPE). GFPE is a statewide nonprofit organization that supports public education in Georgia and aims to advance innovative teaching strategies that significantly impact student learning. The program is part of a broader mission to celebrate, support, and elevate Georgia’s public school educators through tangible financial backing for classroom innovation. This grant supports Georgia public school teachers who propose creative and impactful projects intended to improve student learning outcomes. The funding is designed to help educators implement innovative teaching methods or tools that directly benefit their students. The program emphasizes measurable impact and alignment with GFPE’s definition of innovation, which includes approaches that are new, effective, and replicable in the classroom setting. Funding amounts range from $500 to $2,500 per grant. These funds can be used for project-related expenses, including the purchase of educational materials, technology, and tools that bring unique learning experiences to life. Past recipients have used the funds for VR headsets, robotics systems, forensic science labs, and integrated STEM initiatives. The grant is not intended for personal use or unrelated school expenditures and is focused on supporting educational creativity and measurable impact. Eligibility is limited to Georgia public school teachers who have not previously received this specific Teacher Grant for Innovation. Teachers who are previous recipients are encouraged to share the opportunity with their colleagues but may not reapply. Applicants must submit a completed form, including a photo of themselves in the classroom, which will be used publicly if awarded. Several narrative responses are required in the application, including descriptions of the innovative project, proposed use of funds, goals for student impact, and a brief discussion of the role of innovation in the classroom. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but are reviewed and awarded quarterly, with four cycles each year. The current review periods and award announcement dates are as follows: January 16–April 15 (results by May 15), April 16–July 15 (results by August 15), July 16–October 15 (results by November 15), and October 16–January 15 (results by February 15). Since applications are reviewed quarterly, rolling submissions allow for flexibility, while recurring quarterly reviews ensure regular funding decisions. Applicants with questions or in need of assistance may contact Jaclyn Colona at jaclyn.colona@doe.k12.ga.us. There is no stated phone contact. All applicants must agree to receive emails about teaching events and resources from Georgia Teachers Initiative upon submission but can unsubscribe at any time.