Washington Education Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is offering the 2024 Monarch Butterfly and Pollinators Conservation Fund (Pollinator Fund) to advance pollinator conservation. The core mission of this fund is to protect, conserve, and increase habitat for the monarch butterfly and other native insect pollinators. This aligns with NFWF’s broader Monarch Butterfly Business Plan, indicating a strategic, long-term commitment to these species. The fund aims to support both technical assistance for private working lands and direct habitat improvement projects. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include monarch butterflies and other at-risk native insect pollinator species, such as the rusty patched bumble bee, Franklin’s bumble bee, Karner blue butterfly, Dakota skipper, Poweshiek skipperling, and Mitchell’s satyr. The program also indirectly benefits private landowners, farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners, especially those in Historically Underserved and Special Emphasis categories, by providing resources and incentives for conservation practices on their lands. The overall impact goal is to significantly enhance the quality, quantity, and connectivity of pollinator habitat across eligible states. The Pollinator Fund has two main categories of focus. The first is Technical Assistance for Private Working Lands, which prioritizes increasing voluntary engagement of private landowners in conservation practices through staff resources and targeted outreach for Farm Bill programs like CSP and EQIP. The second category, Habitat Improvement, focuses on on-the-ground restoration and enhancement of pollinator habitat, emphasizing regionally appropriate milkweed and diverse native nectar plants, as well as increasing the supply of native seeds and seedlings. These priorities align with NFWF's strategic goal of fostering sustainable ecosystems through direct habitat restoration and incentivizing private land stewardship. Expected outcomes and measurable results are central to this program. All proposals must demonstrate how they will directly and measurably contribute to the Pollinator Fund's goals, specifically by providing the number of acres restored or enhanced. A minimum of 100 acres in California or 500 acres in all other eligible states must be restored or enhanced. Historically, successful projects have averaged 2,120 acres, indicating a substantial scale for expected impact. The program's theory of change posits that by providing financial assistance and technical support, and by focusing on key geographical areas and species, NFWF can effectively reverse declines in monarch and other native pollinator populations, thereby contributing to broader ecosystem health and biodiversity. The total funding of up to $5.1 million in 2024, contributed by a diverse group of partners, underscores the collaborative and impactful nature of this strategic initiative.

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is offering Music Education Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 for K-12 schools in specified counties of Minnesota and Wisconsin, to enhance music education programs through funding materials, guest artists, community outreach, and collaborations, with a preference for hands-on activities over technological innovations.

The City of Walla Walla’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program aims to expand opportunities for low- and moderate-income citizens within the City of Walla Walla. This program aligns with a mission to improve community well-being through various initiatives. The funding amount is approximately $58,000, with individual grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, and a grant duration of one year. The 2025-2026 Program Year will run from April 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026. The deadline for applications is September 6, 2024. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are low- and moderate-income persons residing in the City of Walla Walla. The program's impact goals are focused on addressing critical community needs in housing, public services, public facilities, neighborhood improvements, and economic development. All projects and programs funded through this grant must principally benefit these individuals. The program prioritizes a range of eligible activities designed to achieve its goals. These include housing rehabilitation, acquisition of real property, demolition, and utilities for housing projects. It also supports the construction, reconstruction, or installation of public facilities and infrastructure, such as parks, playgrounds, streets, sidewalks, and public buildings (excluding those for general government conduct). Furthermore, the grant focuses on public services like mental healthcare, substance abuse treatment, health care, childcare, transportation, youth programs, employment assistance, crime prevention, and fair housing counseling. Expected outcomes include improved living conditions through housing initiatives, enhanced public spaces and infrastructure, and increased access to vital public services for low- and moderate-income residents. The measurable results will be evaluated by the direct impact of these projects and programs on the target population, ensuring they meet a National Objective of serving low- and moderate-income individuals or areas. The foundation's strategic priority is to foster a more equitable and supportive community in Walla Walla, operating under the theory of change that by investing in these key areas, the overall quality of life and opportunities for vulnerable populations will significantly improve. Eligibility criteria for the CDBG program extend to nonprofits, for-profits, and government entities. Applicants must demonstrate that their proposed activities meet a National Objective, which specifically means serving low- and moderate-income individuals or areas. Additionally, the activities themselves must be eligible under CDBG guidelines. For more comprehensive information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the City of Walla Walla’s official website.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local organizations in Oregon and Washington to create and expand workforce programs for individuals referred from shelters, helping those who have experienced homelessness gain employment and essential skills.

The Social Justice Fund NorthWest (SJF) is offering the 2024 Base Building Grant, aimed at strengthening grassroots organizations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. This grant directly aligns with SJF's mission to foster social justice by investing in community organizing as a primary strategy. The program focuses on "Base Building," defined as a tactic that expands the number and engagement of people who share a vision for social justice and actively work to achieve it through organized strategies. This approach underscores SJF's strategic priority of empowering communities to drive systemic change. The grant targets organizations committed to community organizing and led by those most directly affected by the issues they address. Specifically, SJF prioritizes organizations with at least 51% leadership from Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities, or those working predominantly in reservation, rural, or small-town communities. The impact goals are to build collective power, widen the base of engaged individuals, develop strong leadership within communities, and implement effective long-term strategies. The expected outcomes include a critical mass of collective power capable of winning and defending policy, cultural, or institutional changes, as well as a diverse and actively engaged membership. SJF's community organizing framework emphasizes four key areas: Collective Power, Widening the Base, Leadership Development, and Strategy and Long-Term Planning. Under Collective Power, the focus is on building a diverse membership and achieving policy or cultural wins. Widening the Base involves fostering authentic relationships with those most affected, recruiting new people, and using varied, tailored communication methods, including face-to-face engagement. Leadership Development ensures clear entry points to leadership, accessible political education, and continuous engagement and agitation. Finally, Strategy and Long-Term Planning requires organizations to develop and adapt a comprehensive base-building plan with clear goals, timelines, infrastructure, and accountability structures. The grant, providing $100,000 over two years ($50,000 annually), is open to nonprofit organizations, tribal agencies, or fiscally sponsored groups with 501(c)3 or 501(c)4 status, or federally recognized American Indian tribal governments. This funding mechanism directly supports SJF's theory of change, which posits that sustained investment in community-led organizing, focused on these core elements, will lead to meaningful and lasting social justice outcomes in the specified regions.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Vancouver, Washington, to deliver essential supportive services and rental assistance for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, particularly those in Safe Stay and Safe Park sites.

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Community Forests Program to help communities preserve working forest heritage while balancing economic, environmental, and recreational benefits. The program supports land acquisition and complementary restoration and recreation development to keep working forests intact. Typical projects acquire forestland and may include restoration of forest and habitat health and development of recreation facilities such as trails, trailheads, parking, restrooms, campgrounds, picnic and day use areas, challenge courses, and interpretive displays. Restoration activities may include removal of fish barriers and actions that restore forest health. Approximately 3,000,000 dollars is available for awards. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and towns, Native American tribes, nonprofit nature conservancy organizations, special purpose districts and other political subdivisions, and state agencies in partnership with one or more of these groups. All projects must include acquisition; restoration and development cannot be stand alone activities. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state process. Grant size and duration beyond the available pool are not specified. Further information is provided by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for youth sports and activity scholarships, as well as equipment purchases, to organizations serving low to middle-income families in Spokane, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.

This program provides financial support to non-profit organizations and school districts in Grays Harbor County for initiatives that benefit youth, focusing on creating or enhancing programs for children aged 18 and under.

This funding opportunity provides financial and technical support to small businesses and microenterprises in Vancouver, focusing on those owned by individuals with low to moderate incomes.

The City of Tacoma's Grit City Trees Program aims to foster happy and healthy neighborhoods by facilitating community tree planting. This initiative aligns with a broader mission of environmental stewardship and community well-being, enhancing green spaces within the city. The program, which has evolved since 1993 and was revitalized in 2016, focuses on equitable access to trees and the knowledge required for their successful long-term growth. The primary beneficiaries of the Grit City Trees Program are Tacoma property owners with eligible right-of-way planting opportunities, as well as neighborhood groups and individuals in designated Priority Planting Areas. The impact goals include increasing the urban tree canopy, improving neighborhood aesthetics and air quality, and educating residents on proper tree care. By providing free trees, supporting materials, and expert guidance, the program empowers residents to actively participate in greening their communities. The program prioritizes proper tree placement and selection, guidance on right-of-way planting, and educational resources on long-term care and maintenance. It also supplies essential materials like tree stakes, ties, compost (TAGRO), and watering supplies to ensure the trees thrive, especially during dry months. Delivery of up to 150 trees is offered, with priority given to Neighborhood Groups and individual applicants in Priority Planting Areas. Remaining applicants can pick up materials from the City’s plant holding facility. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of healthy street trees across Tacoma, particularly in underserved areas. The program anticipates enhanced community engagement in urban forestry, leading to more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods. Through application and planting assistance, and the submittal of planting permits, the City of Tacoma aims to remove barriers to tree planting and simplify the process for residents, ultimately contributing to a greener and more resilient urban environment.

This funding program provides financial support to community-based organizations in the Pacific Northwest working to address environmental justice and public health challenges in historically underinvested communities.

Medina Foundation Grant Program in Washington funds organizations that support positive pathways for youth, stabilization for families and individuals, and economic opportunities. The foundation prioritizes programs that help youth achieve positive outcomes, ensure basic needs are met, stabilize individuals and families, and provide economic opportunities such as job training, entrepreneurship, and financial education.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Mansfield for innovative projects that improve community services in areas like arts, education, health, and the environment.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, schools, Native American Tribes, and government agencies in Whatcom County for projects that support youth experiencing homelessness and engage young people in environmental initiatives.

COMMUNITY HEART & SOUL GRANT GUIDELINES TIMELINE Application Cycle: April 11, 2024 – August 16, 2024 Introductory Webinars: April 11 and 25, 2024 "Getting Started" Webinars: May 16, June 20, July 18, 2024 Grant Period: October 1, 2024 – August 31, 2026 Final Reports Due: September 15, 2026 PROGRAM DETAILS Innovia Foundation's Community Heart & Soul® Program aims to empower rural communities through resident-driven processes and action in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Benefits include increased community involvement, volunteerism, and economic development. The approach is based on three principles: INVOLVE EVERYONE, FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS MOST, and PLAY THE LONG GAME. Grants of $30,000 each, with a $10,000 local match, will support community projects over two years. NONDISCRIMINATION/ANTI-HATE POLICY Innovia Foundation strictly prohibits funding organizations engaged in hateful activities or discrimination. Applicants must adhere to these standards. QUESTIONS? Contact Jennifer Stapleton at 509.624.2606.

The United Way of Whitman County’s Community Grant program is designed to support non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations that aim to improve the health, education, and economic stability of residents within Whitman County, Washington. This grant initiative aligns directly with the United Way's mission to foster community well-being by addressing fundamental needs in these critical areas. The program seeks to create a tangible impact by investing in organizations that are on the front lines of community development and support. The target beneficiaries for this program are the residents of Whitman County, with a particular focus on those whose health, education, and economic stability can be enhanced through the services of eligible non-profit organizations. The overarching impact goals are to achieve measurable improvements in these key areas, contributing to a stronger and more resilient community. By supporting local non-profits, the United Way of Whitman County acts as a catalyst for positive change, driving progress in the lives of individuals and families. The priorities and focuses of the grant program are clearly centered on initiatives that directly contribute to health, education, and economic stability. While specific strategic priorities and a detailed theory of change are not explicitly outlined in the provided description, the emphasis on these three pillars suggests a framework where funding is directed towards programs that generate direct benefits in these domains. The foundation's approach is to empower local organizations to implement effective solutions that resonate with the needs of the community. Expected outcomes include a range of positive impacts, such as improved access to healthcare, enhanced educational opportunities, and greater economic security for Whitman County residents. Although the description does not specify measurable results, the focus on "improving" these areas implies a commitment to achieving demonstrable progress. Awards typically range from $1,000 to $7,500, with a common award of $5,000, indicating that the grants are designed to provide meaningful support to organizations working towards these shared community goals.

The City of Tacoma's 2025-2026 Neighborhood and Community Services Grant Program is soliciting proposals for service contracts aimed at supporting a wide variety of groups, including agencies and organizations that assist youth, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness. The program's overall mission aligns with enhancing community well-being and addressing critical social issues within Tacoma. The grant duration is two years, with a substantial funding size of over $1 million, specifically $8,000,000 to be distributed among various projects. The program targets several vulnerable populations and aims for significant impact. Key beneficiaries include individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness (including families, unaccompanied youth, and veterans), persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and domestic violence survivors. The impact goals revolve around increasing access to permanent, stable housing, reducing domestic violence, preventing at-risk youth involvement in criminal activity, improving health outcomes, and ensuring equitable food access for all Tacoma residents. There are eight prioritized service categories for the 2025-2026 funding cycle. These include Housing Services and Interventions, Encampment Response, Domestic Violence Reduction and Prevention, Building Resilience Against Violence and Exploitation (BRAVE), Health and Health Care, Equitable Food Access, and Complementary Services. Across all categories, a strong emphasis is placed on addressing racial disparities through tailored service delivery, collaborative service delivery, and trauma-informed, culturally competent practices. Specific geographical focuses for the BRAVE program include the Hilltop, Eastside, West of the Mall, and Hosmer communities, targeting individuals aged 30 and younger, particularly BIPOC young men, girls/women, justice-connected youth, and LGBTQ+ youth. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increasing access to permanent housing, enhancing public health and safety through encampment response, reducing family and intimate partner violence, decreasing youth involvement in criminal activity, improving health outcomes and equitable healthcare access, and providing nutritious food options. The program also seeks to foster housing stability, promote resiliency, and enhance life skills. The City's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in a holistic approach to community well-being, emphasizing collaboration, evidence-based practices, and culturally relevant services to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all Tacoma residents.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for organizations focused on preventing sexual violence through community-based public health strategies, particularly those serving underserved and culturally specific populations.

This grant provides funding for full-time graduate students in the Western U.S. to collaborate with their academic advisors and local producers on projects that promote sustainable agriculture through research and education.