Local Education Grants

The Caesar Rodney Rotary Foundation’s (CRRF) New Castle County Youth Empowerment Fund, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF), is currently accepting applications from non-profit organizations. This grant program aims to provide funding for projects that specifically benefit at-risk youth within New Castle County, Delaware. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by this fund, aligns with empowering young people to overcome challenges and achieve self-sufficiency, contributing to the overall well-being of the community. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are underserved youth and young adults, ranging from birth through 25 years of age, who reside in New Castle County. These individuals are identified as being at risk for not developing the necessary skills and support systems to achieve a self-sufficient future. The impact goal is to empower these at-risk youth by funding initiatives that provide them with crucial skills and support, thereby fostering their long-term independence and success. The program prioritizes non-profit organizations that are based in New Castle County and demonstrate a clear commitment to serving the identified demographic. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the overarching goal of fostering self-sufficiency, it is implied that successful projects will equip young individuals with the tools and resources needed to thrive. The "organization doubles its commitment, offering up to $5,000 per grant" indicates a strategic priority of increasing support for these critical initiatives. The CRRF and DCF's strategic priorities are clearly focused on community development through youth empowerment. Their theory of change appears to be centered on the belief that by investing in organizations that directly serve at-risk youth, they can create a positive ripple effect, leading to improved life outcomes for individuals and stronger, more resilient communities in New Castle County.

This program provides funding to organizations in Kansas to improve digital literacy and skills training, particularly for low-income individuals, veterans, seniors, and rural residents in economically distressed areas.

This grant provides financial support to arts and cultural organizations, individual artists, and local schools in Rowan County to enhance access to arts and cultural opportunities.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in Hennepin County to implement innovative waste prevention and recycling projects that benefit underserved communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local non-profits and school groups for projects that promote environmental sustainability, such as water conservation, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and educational initiatives.

The Douglas County Community Foundation in Kansas is inviting applications for its Livewell Community Wellness Grants, aimed at supporting organizations that promote healthy eating and physical activity, or offer programs to reduce lifestyle-related chronic diseases, with the proposal required to come from a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity and benefit the residents of Douglas County.

The Richmond Fund for Children and Youth is offering a three-year grant ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 to non-profit organizations and public agencies that provide services in areas such as mental and physical health, learning needs, and community safety to children, youth, and young adults in Richmond and unincorporated North Richmond, California, with a focus on those most impacted by harm, inequity, and lack of access to support and services.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts and New York that enhance their capacity to serve young individuals affected by disabilities and mental health challenges, particularly in historically marginalized communities.

The Onondaga County Agritourism Grant Program, announced by the Onondaga County Department of Planning for 2024, aims to bolster the local agricultural community by enhancing the viability of farmland and protecting farms and operators for future generations. This initiative directly aligns with the broader mission of supporting agricultural sustainability and economic growth within Onondaga County. The program recognizes the critical role agritourism plays in farm viability, tourism, and overall quality of life, positioning itself as a strategic effort to integrate these elements for community benefit. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are local agricultural ventures in Onondaga County, including existing farms and new agritourism startups. The impact goals are centered on improving and expanding agritourism operations, which in turn supports farm viability and contributes to local tourism. By investing in these ventures, the program seeks to create a more robust agricultural economy and enhance the recreational and educational opportunities available to residents and visitors. The program prioritizes projects that fall into four general categories: Improve, Expand, Initiate, and Market. This broad focus allows for a diverse range of projects, from enhancing existing operations to launching entirely new ventures. Specific areas of focus include expanding or diversifying operations, improving safety and ease of access for visitors, and adding new educational programming. New agritourism ventures can also utilize funding to offset initial startup costs, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the sector. Expected outcomes of the program include a more resilient and economically viable agricultural sector in Onondaga County, increased agritourism offerings, and improved quality of life for residents. Measurable results could include the number of agritourism ventures that receive funding, the types of projects implemented, the growth in revenue for participating farms, and an increase in tourist engagement with local agricultural sites. The strategic priority is to partner with the agricultural community to achieve these outcomes, with the underlying theory of change being that targeted investment in agritourism will lead to enhanced farm viability and broader community benefits.

This funding program provides financial support to local artists and nonprofit arts organizations in Los Angeles County to create engaging cultural arts projects that benefit the Burbank community.

The Arts in Schools Grants program, offered by the City of Tempe, is designed to expand and enhance arts services for students in Tempe schools. This initiative aligns with the broader Community Arts Grants Program, which aims to support immersive arts and culture experiences for collective impact and sustained value within the community. The program's mission is to foster arts education by providing resources directly to visual and performing arts teachers, enabling them to introduce new equipment, supplies, or guest artists into their curricula and programs. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are visual and performing arts teachers and, by extension, the students within Tempe Union High School District, Tempe Elementary District, Kyrene School District, Tempe Preparatory Academy, and New School for Arts & Academics. The program targets schools and activities located within Tempe's city limits. The impact goals include enriching existing arts programs, offering students unique artistic opportunities, and contributing to a more vibrant and culturally engaged school environment. The program prioritizes several focus areas, offering teachers two main options: up to $750 for specialty equipment or supplies, or up to $2,000 for a residency. The residency option further breaks down into up to $1,500 for a guest artist, clinician, or arts organization, and up to $500 for supplies. For visual arts teachers, additional planning support is available if they select an artist from the Studio Artists Program. This structured approach ensures that resources are allocated to either enhance physical resources for arts education or bring in external expertise to enrich student learning. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the quality and variety of arts education available to students. For the "Specialty Equipment or Supplies" option, the outcome is the acquisition of new materials that enhance teaching and learning. For the "Residency" option, the outcome is the direct engagement of students with professional artists or organizations, providing unique immersive experiences. Measurable results will be tracked through final reports submitted by May 30, 2025, which will detail how the funds were utilized and the impact on the arts programs. The program's strategic priorities are centered on direct support for classroom arts initiatives, ensuring that funding directly benefits student experiences rather than administrative overhead or infrastructure. This grant does not fund activities outside of Tempe, administrative salaries, compensation for immediate relatives, permanent infrastructure enhancements, construction, debt reduction, fundraising, re-granting, scholarship programs, or projects already funded by a 2024-2025 Community Arts Grant.

Grant Opportunity: Saginaw Bay Watershed Pollution Prevention/Chemical Collection Program Description: This grant opportunity is for the construction of a permanent facility to collect pesticides from farmers, homeowners, nurseries, etc. The facility will allow any end user of pesticides to dispose of unwanted materials at no cost. The project was completed in 1999 and is a joint project of the Saginaw County Department of Health and the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Grant Opportunity: Demonstrate Effectiveness of Biodegradable Two-Cycle Engine Oil Description: This grant opportunity is for field testing a soy-based oil that can be used as an alternative to petroleum-based oil in engines such as jet skis, outboard motors, and snowmobiles. The soy-based oil is environmentally preferable as it is 96% biodegradable and does not emit pollutants into the air and water. The funding will be used to demonstrate the safety and performance of the oil and document reductions in emissions into the environment. Grant Opportunity: Saginaw Bay Watershed Native Planting Preserve at Saginaw Valley State University Description: This grant opportunity aims to fund the development of a native planting preserve on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University. The preserve will include plants, signage, and walking trails. The project intends to encourage the use of native plantings in the general public and serve as a demonstration/research site at the university. Grant Opportunity: Alternative Energy from Agriculturally-Derived Pellet Fuel Description: This grant opportunity involves analyzing the technical and economic viability of manufacturing renewable pellet fuel derived from agricultural sources. The research includes studying the economic and environmental impact of using biomass combustion furnaces for heating residential and light industrial buildings. The project also includes developing a web-based interface for real-time telemetry information. Grant Opportunity: Conservation Tillage Risk Protection Program Description: This grant opportunity aims to demonstrate the use of conservation tillage in two subwatersheds of the Tittabawassee River. The

This program provides financial support to women in Warren County pursuing education or business growth, with additional funding available for those entering healthcare fields.

The Access to Quality Child Care for Children with Disabilities Grant, issued by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), aims to expand the availability of quality, accessible, and affordable child care for infants, toddlers, and school-age children with disabilities within the District of Columbia. This initiative directly aligns with OSSE's mission to improve educational outcomes and ensure equitable access to services for all children, particularly those with special needs. By focusing on increasing the supply of specialized child care options, the program supports the foundational goal of creating inclusive early learning and out-of-school time environments. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are infants, toddlers (6 weeks to under 3 years old), and school-age children (5 to under 19 years old, with exceptions for 3- and 4-year-olds in out-of-school programs) with disabilities residing in the District of Columbia. Eligibility for infants and toddlers is based on an active Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or a diagnosis of specific medical conditions such as genetic, sensory, motor, neurologic, sociocommunicative, medically related, acquired trauma-related, or other OSSE-approved health impairments. For out-of-school time programs, children must have an active 504 Accommodation Plan or an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). The impact goal is to ensure that these children have access to child care slots specifically designed and equipped to meet their unique needs, thereby fostering their development in inclusive settings. The grant prioritizes providing resources to child development facilities and out-of-school time programs licensed by OSSE to create and operate ongoing child care slots. This includes supporting both individual organizations and consortia of multiple organizations. The focus is on expanding the capacity of these programs to cater to children with diverse disabilities within an inclusive framework. OSSE's strategic priority is to address the current gap in specialized child care options, ensuring that children with disabilities receive the comprehensive support necessary for their growth and development. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in the number of quality child care slots available for children with disabilities in DC. Measurable results will likely be tied to the number of new slots created, the number of children served, and the types of disabilities accommodated. The grant's three-year duration and substantial funding (totaling $6 million, with awards ranging from $200,000 to $4 million) reflect a theory of change that posits that by investing in the infrastructure and specialized resources of child care providers, OSSE can directly enhance the educational and developmental opportunities for children with disabilities, ultimately leading to improved long-term outcomes for this vulnerable population.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to community organizations in Seattle that aim to improve digital access and technology skills for underserved populations, helping to close the digital divide.

The Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program is offering Community Stewardship Grants to fund projects that prevent stormwater pollution, improve local watersheds, creeks, and the San Francisco Bay, and include a public outreach component. This initiative directly aligns with the program's mission to enhance environmental health through community engagement and education. Projects must be implemented within Alameda County. The grants target a wide range of beneficiaries, including teachers and student groups, service clubs, community groups, environmental groups, youth organizations, homeowner associations, and non-profit organizations. The program aims to foster a collective effort in environmental stewardship, empowering various community sectors to contribute to a healthier local ecosystem. For-profit groups and public agencies are not eligible, emphasizing the program's focus on grassroots and non-commercial community efforts. The program prioritizes creative and innovative projects that prevent or educate about stormwater pollution. Specific focuses include litter reduction, outreach and education on topics such as household hazardous waste disposal and Integrated Pest Management, development of outreach materials, public art projects, creekside restoration and enhancement, stormwater detention projects (e.g., rain gardens, cisterns, bioretention areas), coastal and creek cleanups, and wildlife habitat enhancement. These diverse project types reflect a comprehensive approach to improving water quality and ecological well-being. Expected outcomes include a reduction in stormwater pollution, improved health of local watersheds and the San Francisco Bay, and increased public awareness and engagement in environmental protection. Measurable results could include the number of community members reached by outreach efforts, the volume of litter removed, the area of habitat restored, or the number of stormwater detention systems implemented. The program's strategic priority is to leverage community-led initiatives to achieve tangible environmental improvements and cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility within Alameda County. The underlying theory of change posits that by empowering and educating local communities, sustainable practices for water quality and watershed health will be widely adopted. Individual grant amounts range from $500 to $6,000, with a total of $30,000 available in grant funding. This funding structure is designed to support a variety of projects, from smaller, localized efforts to more extensive community initiatives. Applicants who are not formal 501(c)(3) non-profits are required to secure a fiscal sponsor, ensuring proper financial management and accountability for the grant funds.

This funding opportunity supports innovative research and outreach projects that improve the health and sustainability of Lake Superior and Minnesota's inland waters, targeting academic institutions, nonprofits, and collaborative teams focused on aquatic resources.

This grant provides financial support for nonprofit organizations and government units in Clinton County, Pennsylvania, to implement specific projects, purchase equipment, or make capital improvements that benefit the community.

The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) provides grants to rural-serving nonprofit organizations, as well as rural community colleges, that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education. The core mission of this program is to increase the overall capacity of these organizations and community colleges to address a wide array of rural development challenges. A key aspect of the fund's strategy is to help these entities establish new public/private partnerships, which are crucial for leveraging non-state sources of funding and ensuring long-term sustainability. The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) serves as the administrative agency for this grant, managing applications and disbursing funds. The target beneficiaries of MAERDAF are rural-serving nonprofit organizations and rural community colleges. These entities work with communities across Maryland's state-determined rural counties, including Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen rural Maryland through enhanced education, economic opportunities, and community development. By supporting organizations that directly serve these areas, MAERDAF aims to foster a more resilient and prosperous rural landscape. For Fiscal Year 2025, the RMC has outlined several key priority areas for applications. These include Agriculture & Forestry (Agricultural Education, Regional Food System Development, Forest Industry Development), Energy (Combined Heat Power, Energy Efficiency, Biomass), Rural Broadband (Rural Broadband Expansion Efforts, Digital Inclusion Programs), Youth Engagement & Leadership Development (Career Technology Centers, Youth Enrichment Programs), Economic Development (Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development, Education & Workforce Development, Regional Marketing Efforts & Tourism Projects), and Community Development (Rural Transportation, Housing repairs, Housing counseling, Poverty Alleviation Efforts). These focus areas reflect the most pressing needs and strategic opportunities for rural growth and improvement in Maryland. The expected outcomes and measurable results from MAERDAF grants are multifaceted, aiming for tangible improvements in rural areas. Projects are expected to contribute to the growth of agricultural and forestry sectors, increase energy efficiency, expand rural broadband access, and enhance youth engagement and leadership. In economic development, anticipated outcomes include the creation of entrepreneurship ecosystems, improved workforce development, and increased regional tourism. Community development efforts are designed to result in better rural transportation, improved housing conditions, and a reduction in poverty. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the focus on these clear outcome areas indicates an expectation of measurable progress in each. MAERDAF's strategic priorities are deeply aligned with a theory of change that posits that by empowering and funding rural-serving organizations and community colleges, a ripple effect of positive development will occur. The funding, budgeted at $878,964 for Fiscal Year 2025 with a maximum grant amount of $45,000, is intended to build the capacity of these local entities. The encouragement of new public/private partnerships further demonstrates a belief that diversified funding and collaborative efforts are essential for long-term impact. The emphasis on a broad range of development areas reflects a holistic approach to rural well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of agriculture, education, economy, and community health.

The County of Somerset Cultural & Heritage Commission's History Partnership Grant Program aims to bolster both established and nascent local history organizations in Somerset County, New Jersey. This program, administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission (SCC&HC) and supported by the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), is designed to provide financial backing to non-profit organizations and municipalities that deliver history programming, services, and development within the county. The grants are competitive and emphasize fostering excellence in local history initiatives, aligning with a broader mission to preserve and promote New Jersey's rich historical narrative at the community level. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Somerset County-based organizations, including non-profit 501(c)3 or 501(c)4 entities, units of local government, institutions of higher education, and faith-based organizations. The program's impact goals are centered on increasing access to New Jersey history, expanding knowledge of the state's historical context, and improving the management and operational capabilities of local history organizations. By supporting these entities, the program seeks to ensure that historical resources and educational opportunities are readily available to the public throughout Somerset County. The grant program prioritizes and focuses on activities that directly enhance local history programming and services. Eligible expenses span a wide range, from salaries and wages, contracted services, and marketing, to lease expenses, equipment purchases, and maintenance of collections and structures. Crucially, the program also supports staff training, capacity building, and strategic planning, including planning for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. This comprehensive approach ensures that organizations can not only deliver compelling programs but also operate sustainably and adapt to contemporary needs. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a greater number of high-quality history programs, improved access to historical information and resources for Somerset County residents, and stronger, more resilient local history organizations. The competitive nature of the awards encourages applicants to strive for excellence, and the independent peer panel evaluation process helps ensure that funding is directed towards projects with the greatest potential for impact. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on increasing access, expanding knowledge, and improving management suggests an expectation of tangible improvements in historical engagement and organizational health within the county.