When it comes to improving K-12 education, one of the biggest challenges schools face is securing the funding needed to support programs, infrastructure, and student well-being. While many schools rely on traditional fundraising, one often underutilized but powerful source of support is grant funding.
If your school has never applied for a grant before, or if you've struggled with the process, this guide breaks down the essentials, from understanding what school grants are to finding the right opportunities and submitting a winning application.
School grants are financial awards given by government agencies, foundations, corporations, or nonprofits to support education-related initiatives. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid. Schools apply by submitting a proposal outlining their need, goals, and plans for how they would use the funding.
Grants can fund a wide range of initiatives, such as:
Grants offer valuable financial support that can help schools enhance access to quality education and safer learning environments. They provide reliable funding for long-term projects, improve the school’s reputation, and create opportunities for new initiatives. Grants can also be a key tool in supporting safety upgrades, ensuring schools are equipped to meet the needs of today’s students and educators.
There are many sources to explore when searching for grants:
Federal agencies provide some of the largest and most competitive grants for education. A few key places to start:
Many state education departments offer grant programs tailored to regional needs. These can be less competitive and more accessible than federal grants, making them a great starting point. Check with:
Once you’ve found a grant that fits your needs, follow these tips to craft a strong application:
Focus on grants that align with your school’s mission, current needs, and long-term goals.
Every grant has its own eligibility criteria and instructions. Follow them closely to avoid disqualification.
Highlight the challenges your school faces and the difference the funding will make for your students.
Back up your proposal with facts and figures—like enrollment numbers and outcome metrics—to build a stronger case.
Clearly outline how the funds will be used. Be transparent, realistic, and tie your budget to your project goals.
Start early, gather the necessary documents, and involve key stakeholders like administrators or finance personnel.
Grants are a powerful tool for K-12 schools looking to improve student and educator experience, enhance safety, expand programs, and make lasting campus enhancements. While the application process can be time-consuming, the long-term benefits are well worth the effort.
By taking the time to research, plan, and apply thoughtfully, your school can tap into meaningful funding that helps turn great ideas into real impact.
Please note: Assessment requests are subject to availability based on your location. If your area is outside our current service range, we will follow up to let you know as soon as possible.