Seattle Fund Grants

The Best Buy Foundation, through its Seattle Fund, provides targeted support to nonprofit organizations that serve youth in the King County metro area. With a mission to build brighter futures through technology, the Foundation aims to empower teens from underserved communities by funding tech-related programs that offer out-of-school learning opportunities. The Foundation believes that fostering technological skills, exposure, and career pathways can transform young people into active creators in the tech-driven economy. Two grant programs are offered: the Career Pathways Grant and the Teens & Tech Grant. The Career Pathways Grant supports initiatives that prepare teens aged 13 to 21 for tech-related careers by delivering hands-on training and career development activities. Ideal programs integrate a range of technologies including audio production, website development, UX/UI, coding, and robotics. These programs should incorporate credentialing opportunities, align with labor market needs, and provide work-based experiences such as internships and mentorship. Wraparound supports like housing, mental health, and transportation services are encouraged to further enable participant success. The Teens & Tech Grant, designed for teens aged 13 to 18, focuses on exploratory learning through cutting-edge technologies. Programs should allow teens to experiment with tools like digital cameras, software for design and coding, and equipment for virtual reality and robotics. The emphasis is on encouraging technological exploration and skill-building outside of school hours, aiming to expose participants to future career possibilities and enhance their technical competencies. Eligibility for either program requires that applicants be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or tax-exempt public charities with a valid IRS Tax ID. Applicants must have a history of at least two years of youth programming and should serve teens in King County who are disconnected from traditional educational or career pathways. The requested funding must not exceed 49% of the program budget. Applications must be submitted through the CyberGrants portal at https://bby.me/seattle by 5:00 PM Pacific on March 1. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $15,000 for a one-year period, with the possibility of renewal based on performance. Successful applicants will be notified by April 30. The application process includes detailed program descriptions, goals, technical skills focus, demographics, budget documentation, and additional organizational information. Questions and feedback can be directed to info@bestbuyfoundation.org.