Students to Stewards Grants

The Alabama Power Foundation’s Students to Stewards grant initiative is a focused educational grant program aimed at promoting environmental awareness and stewardship among K-12 students in Alabama. Rooted in the foundation’s mission to support the communities it serves, this initiative integrates environmental education with practical, outdoor learning experiences. The Alabama Power Foundation, a philanthropic arm of the Alabama Power Company, funds a range of community enrichment programs. The Students to Stewards grant specifically supports educators and institutions that prioritize conservation education and environmental responsibility, reflecting the foundation's broader commitment to sustainability and youth development. This grant program provides financial support—up to $2,500 per award—for educational programs and projects that teach environmental conservation principles. Eligible uses include the development or enhancement of outdoor classrooms, purchase of teaching tools, and acquisition of curriculum materials aimed at environmental education. The grant encourages programs that involve students directly in hands-on learning, whether through structured outdoor environments or through curricula that focus on local ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resource management. Funding may increase beyond $2,500 in certain cases where needs are clearly demonstrated. Eligibility is inclusive of K-12 public and private schools in Alabama, with a strong preference for Title I public schools and those in Alabama Power’s service territory. Educators must serve grades kindergarten through twelve. Nonprofits that partner with schools are also permitted to apply, though the application must be submitted under the school’s name and any funds awarded are directed to the school itself. This structure ensures that funds directly benefit student learning environments. There are no stated restrictions against types of schools beyond this, but the prioritization language makes it clear that the focus is on underserved and locally connected institutions. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle open on October 5 and close on October 23, 2026. This single annual cycle requires timely submission within the specified window. There are no pre-application steps or multi-phase application stages noted, simplifying the process for applicants. Submission is conducted through the Alabama Power Foundation’s website. While specific application components are not detailed, it can be inferred that applicants must describe their project and its alignment with the goals of the Students to Stewards program. Grant applications are evaluated based on alignment with environmental or conservation-related learning goals, as well as the presence or development of outdoor learning spaces. Programs that inspire stewardship and the active preservation of Alabama's natural environment receive priority. Schools serving economically disadvantaged populations and those within the foundation’s geographic focus area are given preference in funding decisions. Though no contact details are provided in the source material, the Alabama Power Foundation website serves as the primary point of access for applicants. As a recurring program, the Students to Stewards grant follows an annual cycle. Based on the current application window, it is reasonable to expect the next round to open in October 2027. Organizations interested in applying in future years are encouraged to monitor the foundation’s website starting in mid-to-late summer for updated information. The Students to Stewards grant offers a straightforward and impactful opportunity for Alabama educators to enrich their students’ understanding of environmental issues through experiential learning and conservation-focused education.

Align project with environmental conservation and demonstrate service to Title I schools or underserved communities.