The Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant is offered by the Best Buy Foundation to support local or national nonprofit organizations interested in becoming Tech Skills Partners within the Best Buy Teen Tech Centers (BBTTC) network. These centers provide hands-on, project-based learning in STEAM disciplines for youth aged 13–19, with the goal of increasing technical proficiency and expanding career exploration opportunities in underserved communities. This grant seeks to enrich the BBTTC programming menu with supplemental workshops that align with STEAM learning objectives and are accessible in multiple delivery formats, including in-person, virtual, and hybrid.
Organizations eligible for this grant must demonstrate a track record of asset-based programming tailored to youth engagement, particularly in out-of-school settings. Proposals should outline their program model, delivery method, geographic availability, curriculum, facilitator support, technology requirements, and learning outcomes. While facilitator-led, hands-on workshops are prioritized, ad-hoc programs such as curriculum toolkits and apprenticeships are also considered. Sample workshop topics include coding, filmmaking, music production, and robotics. Programs must serve a minimum of 10 youth and ideally last no more than 50 contact hours per site.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via Submittable, with quarterly review cycles. Selected proposals are added to a menu of workshop options available to Teen Tech Centers for one year. Final selection for funding depends on center-specific requests and budget availability. Organizations whose proposals are selected will collaborate with BBTTC staff to implement the program within one year of grant award, and will be required to submit a final budget and potentially undergo further review for modifications.
The grant provides up to $24,999 per site and covers costs associated with workshop delivery, equipment needs beyond standard BBTTC supplies, and youth safety measures. Organizations delivering programming must comply with legal standards related to youth protection, including background checks for all personnel involved. All programs must be implemented within 90 days of selection by a Teen Tech Center and be completed within one year of the funding award.
Applicants are expected to submit comprehensive proposals through the Submittable portal, which include curriculum details, budget breakdowns, technology requirements, and certifications offered. Additionally, they are required to upload organizational information such as mission statement, operating budget, board membership, and past funding sources. An impact report is required within 90 days of program completion or one year after funding, whichever comes first, to be eligible for future grant consideration.
For inquiries, organizations can contact the Best Buy Foundation via email at info@bestbuyfoundation.org. Office hours and information sessions are available through the links provided in the application portal. Proposals began being accepted on August 1st, 2025, and will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis with quarterly evaluations and funding distributions occurring typically within 6 to 8 weeks after approval.
