2019-2020 Educational Grants Available!

This is the Updated Grant List for the 2019-2020 School Year!

Start the 2019-2020 school year off with excitement! There’s no better way to get students out of the “summer slump” and back on track than with High Touch High Tech!

Looking for ways to fund your next High Touch High Tech workshop? Whether your looking to fund your next exciting elementary programs or upcoming preschool science, the grants listed below are a fantastic resource for all educators!

Grants    Add Grant
The following grants are listed in order by application deadline and grouped by month due. Plus, don’t miss continuing opportunities located in the “ongoing section” at the end.

July 2019

EcoSolution Grants from the Captain Planet Foundation are intended to support solution-oriented, youth-led projects that result in real environmental outcomes. Apply July 15, 2019.

EcoSTEM Resource Kits from Captain Planet Foundation are designed to engage students in project-based learning. Each of the four kits (earth, energy, water, pollination) contains supplies for 32 students. Apply by July 15, 2019.

EcoTech Grants were created by the Captain Planet Foundation to combat the notion that students needed to choose between “the screen” or “the green” and to encourage educators and students to explore the role technology can play in designing and implementing solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges. Apply July 15, 2019.

August 2019

K-12 teachers are invited to submit a lesson plan for the chance to win a $250 Visa gift card to be used for classroom supplies. Lesson plans due by August 20, 2019.

September 2019

The Fulbright Scholar Program provides teaching and/or research grants to U.S. faculty and experienced professionals in a wide variety of academic and professional fields, including environmental science. Apply by September 16, 2019.

December 2019

K-12 schools are eligible to apply for a Smart Kids Grant of $100 to $5,000 from ALDI for programs that encourage kids to be active in the areas of education, physical activity, nutrition, socializing, and the arts. Apply by December 15, 2019.

Ongoing

Project Hero is a project-based learning tool and framework from the Captain Planet Foundation that connects young heroes to information about threatened species and ecosystems, guiding them on a quest to uncover and implement solutions to help locally. Small grants may be available for some quests.

Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education (SFE) Fund funds projects that plant and/or maintain natural landscapes in centers of learning. Project goals should focus on the enhancement and development of an appreciation for nature using native plants. Applications are due October 15th.

ExtremeTerrain’s Clean Trail Grant Program provides eligible groups of five or more the opportunity to apply for a $250 grant to fund their next trail improvement-related project, including clean-up, restoration, or expansion. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

The Positive Payload Program is designed to benefit non-profit charitable organizations who use and rely on pickup trucks to better their community. Anyone who works with or volunteers for a charity that uses Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, GMC Sierras, or Dodge Rams may apply for a $2,000 donation. The person who nominates the selected charity will receive $200. Applications are accepted twice per year, each May 31 and December 31.

North Carolina Native Plant Society offers B. W. Wells grants of up to $1,000.00 to support stewardship of native plants and their habitats through education, protection, propagation, and advocacy. These grants are available to organizations, including federal, state, and local agencies. Grant applications may be submitted at any time, but awards are dependent on the availability of funds.

The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation’s Environment Program awards grants through invited proposals and the occasional funding competition. Funding opportunities may also be available through organizations administering re-granting programs supported by the foundation.

Individuals or groups currently pursuing a program or initiative designed to benefit the environment are invited to apply for a $3,500 grant from Quadratec. Applications are accepted twice per year: June 30 and October 30.

The Laboratory Equipment Donation Program (LEDP), formerly the Energy-Related Laboratory Equipment (ERLE) Grant Program, was established by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) to grant surplus and available used energy-related laboratory equipment to universities and colleges in the United States for use in energy oriented educational programs.

Each year, Seed Savers Exchange donates seeds to hundreds of organizations and gardens in need through its Herman’s Garden Seed Donation Program.

Get “seed” money for your school through this fundraising program from Sow True Seed (STS). For every seed packet you buy through STS, they will donate 30% of the sale price to your organization.

By planting milkweeds – the host plants for monarch caterpillars – and nectar plants for adult monarchs and pollinators, you can help maintain the monarch migration and sustain the pollinators. If your school or non-profit organization qualifies, Monarch Watch will provide a free flat of 32 milkweed seedlings as well as guidance on how to create a new habitat or enhance an existing garden.

Clif Bar Family Foundation Small Grants are awarded for general organizational support or to fund specific projects that protect the Earth, create a healthy food system, increase opportunities for outdoor activity, reduce environmental health hazards, and build stronger communities. Applications are reviewed three times per year.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives serve more than 2.5 million people across North Carolina in 93 of the state’s 100 counties. The cooperatives emphasize the importance of community involvement, integrity, accountability and innovation, and as part of that commitment, sponsor Bright Ideas education grants. These grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects for students in grades K–12 throughout the state.

The K4C Microgrant Program is the bridge between ideas and action. By providing microgrants in varying amounts up to $1,000, K4C helps young citizen leaders execute and magnify their initiatives to help repair our world. Whether it is turning a vacant lot into a community garden, rebuilding a school playground or helping senior citizens get their homes ready for winter, they want to hear what project you’re passionate about. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

U.S. students ages 13-22 who are going abroad to volunteer or study in a developing country are encouraged to apply for an international service-learning mini-grant of up to $300. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

As part of Annie’s commitment to school gardens, the company created the Annie’s Garden Funder on CrowdRise to empower schools and like-minded friends to raise money for school gardens.

The grants on our page (eenorthcarolina.org) tend to specifically address environmental education and related projects in schools, nonformal education settings and communities. If you are looking for more classroom and school improvement grants, our friends at Environmental Education in Georgia include some grants of this nature in their listing at eeingeorgia.org.

CR KIDS is an innovative and easy clothing recycling and fundraising program that can run anytime of the school year. Through a partnership with PODS® and dedication to our mission of People Recycling for People, Community Recycling provides an easy and no-cost, turn-key program that provides rewards beyond standard fundraising.

Want to make a difference? Take action? Solve a tough community problem? YSA can help! Whether you’re a kid, teen, educator, or adult mentor, YSA Grants power youth-led service and service-learning projects with funding, training, and resource support. Funding amount ranges from $250 to $5,000.

The Gannett Foundation supports local organizations in communities served by the Gannett Company (i.e., Asheville). Priorities include education and neighborhood improvement, youth development, community problem-solving and environmental conservation. Applications considered twice a year. Average funding amount is $1,000 to $5,000.

ShoeBox Recycling ensures that unwanted shoes are diverted from landfills and reach the feet of people in need around the world. It is also a fundraising program that will help you earn some extra funds for your organization or any charitable organization you support! You will earn $0.25 per pound or $0.50 per pound if you send 5+ boxes at one time.

Walmart partners with organizations that operate on a national scale in communities throughout the country. They provide funds to organizations that have local affiliates around the country, and the majority of grants from this program include re-grants to implement programs in local communities. Grants funded at $250,000 or above.

The Cornell Douglas Foundation provides grants to organizations that advocate for environmental health and justice, encourage stewardship of the environment, and further respect for sustainability of resources. The average grant amount is $10,000. Applications accepted year-round.

The National Wildlife Federation’s tree bank program provides free, native tree seedlings to schools, youth groups and nonprofit organizations. Rolling application process.

The Environmental Research & Education Foundation accepts proposals for research projects and educational initiatives for developing tools that promote awareness or increase knowledge of the solid waste industry. Awards are generally up to $500,000. Pre-proposals are due by 5 p.m. each May 21 and October 1.

The Bank of America offers grants that support high-impact initiatives, organizations and the development of visionary leaders. Schools with farm-to-school programs may be eligible under the areas: (1) assisting with food access and/or (2) developing career leadership and skills. Requests for proposals are issued three times per year.

The LEGO Children’s Fund provides grants primarily in two focus areas: (1) early childhood education and development that is directly related to creativity and (2) technology and communication projects that advance learning opportunities. Typical awards are between $500 and $5,000. Applications accepted four times a year.

The Bush Fellowship is an opportunity for individuals to increase their capacity for and improve their practice of leadership, while working with others to solve tough problems in their communities. Applications accepted three times per year.

Westinghouse provides grants to nonprofit programs that support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, environmental sustainability, and community vitality. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for programs located not more than 100 miles from a Westinghouse site. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed two times per year.

Costco Wholesale grants support programs focusing on children, education and health and human services. They look to achieve the greatest impact where Costco’s employees and members live and work. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, which meet their giving guidelines and focus areas, are considered. Applications are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis.

The current rate of funding for science proposals in the U.S. is about 20%. The #SciFund Challenge is an experiment – can scientists use crowdfunding to fund their research? It is also a way to get scientists to directly engage with the public. Crowdfunding forces scientists to build public interaction and outreach into their research from day one.

Campus Progress works with youth-led community and campus groups on various issues, including the environment. Young people can join an Action Alliance with Campus Progress by applying for an organizing grant of up to $1,500 a year to help with websites, fliers or anything else they might need. Organizing grant applications are accepted year round.

FundingFactory is a free program where schools, non-profits, and charities earn points that can be redeemed for cash or products by recycling their empty printer cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation funds nonprofit organizations focusing on learning and science education, environmental and energy sustainability, community vitality and development, and public safety and human services. Eligible organizations must have a direct impact in a NiSource service area.

The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) and Dreyer’s Fruit Bars are planting orchards across the country in a collaborative program called “Communities Take Root,” and your town could be next! They invite your community to apply for this exciting opportunity to grow fresh fruit, beautify neighborhoods, strengthen relationships and build community food security—all through the simple act of planting fruit trees.

“Fruit Tree 101” is a program that creates outdoor edible orchard classrooms at public schools of all levels, across the country, to provide generations of students with environmental education opportunities and a source of organic fruit for improved school lunch nutrition.

The EarthEcho Water Planet Challenge Grants of $2,000 are available to middle and high school public educators to support service-learning programs that improve the health of the planet. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed three times per year.

When children’s lives are filled with play, we all benefit: our communities will be healthier and happier today, and our society will be stronger and more resilient tomorrow. KaBOOM! offers a number of community-built playground grants to empower friends and neighbors to collaborate for a common cause – to bring play to their communities. Applications accepted on a rolling basis.

The Simply Organic 1% fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture. One percent of sales on all Simply Organic spices, seasonings, flavors and mixes goes to support organic agriculture — through research, education and grower development.

The Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation supports grassroots organizations and movements in the U.S. working to change environmental, social, economic and political conditions to bring about a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Awesome Food, a chapter of the worldwide Awesome Foundation, is accepting grant applications to further food awesomeness in the universe. Applications are reviewed as they are received. One grant is awarded each month.

Need some funding for your crazy brilliant idea? The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler. Deadlines are rolling.

Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools is a grassroots public health effort to engage stakeholders at the local, state and national level to support salad bars in schools. The program’s goal is to fund and award 6,000 salad bars over the next three years. Any K-12 school district participating in the National School Lunch Program is eligible. Applications accepted throughout the year.

The International Paper Foundation supports non-profit organizations in communities where its employees live and work. Environmental education is one of the primary areas the Foundation supports. An online application process routes applications to the appropriate local facility for consideration. Contact your local facility for submission deadlines.

Public school teachers who register their classroom at the Adopt-a-Classroom website can be adopted by an individual, business or foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology.

Patagonia seeks proposals from organizations working on the root causes of environmental problems and approaching issues with a commitment to long-term change. Most grants are in the range of $2,500 to $15,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year at Patagonia retail stores and at company headquarters every April 30 and August 31.

Get “seed” money for your school through a fundraising program from Renee’s Garden. When you sign up for the program, 25% of every order will be donated to your school or organization.

Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas supports projects in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, environmental justice and environmental education. While proposals are accepted all year, ideal timing is during the first quarter of the calendar year.

Each week, Youth Service America names an Everyday Young Hero, age 5-25, who exemplifies an extraordinary commitment to service. This year, YSA will also select 12 winners – one per month – to receive $250 grants to continue and expand their project.

Your school will receive credit for any type of ink or toner cartridges that are not visibly damaged. You may also receive credit for qualifying small electronics, such as cell phones and MP3 players.

The Cedar Tree Foundation makes grants in the areas of children’s environmental health, sustainable agriculture, and other environmental priorities. It does not have a set budget for its grants or a pre-determined timeline. Grants most likely will be in the range of $20,000 to $100,000.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private, family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, education, human services and other causes. Applications are open to any organization that meets the grant guidelines. Grants are awarded every June and December.

Through the Sip to Support a Garden program, schools and community gardens can earn year-round funding for their garden programs. Register your school or public community garden group with Jamba’s swipe card program and every time a supporter of your group uses the card at a participating Jamba Juice, your program gets 10% of the sales.

Youth Venture inspires and invests in teams of young people to design and launch their own lasting social ventures, enabling them to have a transformative experience of leading positive social change. When the team is ready to launch, Youth Venture offers seed funding up to $1,000, guidance, tools and support, and a supportive network of fellow Youth Venturers.

The Northrop Grumman Corporation supports communities, projects and organizations, particularly where its employees live and work, with financial, in-kind and volunteer resources. Grants are awarded to accredited schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for projects focused on education and the environment, among others. Northrop Grumman does not accept unsolicited requests for funding.

These grants seek to strengthen the stewardship of public lands by strengthening Friends Groups through funding for organizational capacity building. Applications are accepted April 30 and October 30 every year.

The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund provides grants in support of wildlife conservation projects – including conservation education. Grants generally range from $5,000 to $25,000. Applications are accepted twice per year: April 30 and November 30.

The Office Depot Foundation awards grants to support activities that serve, teach and inspire children, youth and families, and to support civic organizations and activities that serve community needs. Grants range from $50 to $3,000. Applications are reviewed year-round.

Hi eenorthcarolina.org users! It’s our privilege to provide this resource for you. Have you applied for, or even better, received a grant or contest that you learned about from this page? Please let us know about it. Just send a quick email to Marty.Wiggins@ncdenr.gov and let us know. This will help us better serve you!

The Verizon Foundation awards grants to K-12 schools to increase literacy and educational achievement levels. Proposals are considered from public and private elementary and secondary schools registered with the National Center for Education Statistics. Unsolicited proposals are reviewed on a continuous calendar year basis, from January 1 – October 14.

The ING Foundation awards grants of $2,500 to $100,000 and more to non-profit organizations. The Foundation focuses on financial literacy, children’s education, diversity and environmental sustainability. Grant requests are reviewed quarterly.

The MeadWestvaco Foundation seeks to provide leadership for advancing research, education and public dialogue on public policy issues of special interest, such as the economy, regulation and environmental stewardship. Proposals for grants are accepted throughout the year. Grants range from $250 to $10,000.

WaysToHelp.org invites teens in the U.S. to apply for grants to fund their community service ideas across any one of 16 issue areas, including the environment. Grant requests are reviewed and responded to on a monthly basis. Grants up to $500 are awarded.

The objective of the National Geographic Conservation Trust is to support conservation activities around the world as they fit within the mission of the National Geographic Society. The trust will fund projects that contribute significantly to the preservation and sustainable use of the Earth’s biological, cultural, and historical resources. While grant amounts vary greatly, most range from $15,000 to $20,000 each. Pre-applications accepted throughout the year, but should be submitted at least eight months prior to anticipated field dates.

Recognizing that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organizations, and corporate partners for momentum, Waste Management lends its support and services to programs related to environmental education, the environment and the community. Applications accepted year-round.

The BoatU.S. Foundation awards nonprofit organizations up to $10,000 for the promotion of safe and clean boating education. Past topics have ranged from public service announcements on the effects of boating under the influence to hands-on education about the effects of marine debris. Letters of intent accepted year-round.

Orchards are donated where the harvest will best serve communities for generations, such as community gardens, public schools and parks, low-income neighborhoods, Native American reservations, international hunger relief sites, and animal sanctuaries. Fruit Tree 101 grants for public schools only. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

The USDA has programs throughout its operations that can assist farmers, help consumers access nutritious foods, and support rural community development. This page lists several programs and grants to assist those involved in local food systems, food and nutrition-related community development and farm to school programs.

The Wal-mart State Giving Program seeks to support organizations with programs that align with its mission to create opportunities so people can live better. The Foundation has four areas of focus: Education, Workforce Development / Economic Opportunity, Health & Wellness, and Environmental Sustainability. Minimum grants are $25,000. The submission deadlines are April 17 and September 18 each year.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc. and the Toyota USA Foundation support programs in education, environment and safety. Applicant organizations must be tax-exempt. Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports organizations that improve the quality of life in communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Grants are awarded for educational efforts, community enrichment, environmental programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Requests are reviewed on a rolling cycle throughout the year. Due to year-end limited funding, early submission is encouraged.

The Annenberg Foundation focuses its grantmaking on education and youth development; arts, culture, and humanities; civic and community; animal services and the environment; and health and human services. Letters of inquiry that address these interests are accepted throughout the year.

Competitive grants are available to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations in the U.S. that facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Only proposals from grassroots, constituent-led organizations are considered. Letters of interest may be submitted at any time.

K-12 teachers who develop or apply science, math and technology may qualify for a grant of up to $250. Grants may be used for demonstration kits, science supplies, math and science software and other materials to help make science, math and technology come alive in the classroom. Grants will be considered in November, January and April.

GCA offers several research fellowships and scholarships for undergrads, grads and people already in the field. Topics include: ecological restoration, urban forestry, environmental studies, wetland studies, botany, desert studies and more.

Each business day, 4imprint gives a worthy organization $500 in promotional products to spread the word, recruit volunteers, thank donors, offer comfort to someone in need or in some other way turns one thing into something much more.

The ESMM Community Grants Program provides funding to local communities to implement strategies that advance the goals and objectives of Eat Smart, Move More…NC’s Plan.

Funding is awarded yearly, based on availability of funds. The RFA is generally released in May, with funding distributed to grant recipients in September.

Young people ages 18-25 are eligible to apply for grants to pursue research, exploration, and conservation-related projects consistent with National Geographic’s existing grant programs, including the Committee for Research and Exploration, the Expeditions Council, and the Conservation Trust. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Environmental Education Centers may be eligible for a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (Federal Agencies and for-profit institutions are not elegible.) The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The Fund for Wild Nature provides “small grants to small groups who get things done.” The fund provides money for campaigns (including development of citizen science endeavors) to save and restore native species, biological diversity and wild ecosystems. Most grants awarded in the past ranged from $1,000-$3,000. Applications accepted each May 1 and October 1.

The Lowe’s Toolbox for Education program provides grant awards from $2,000 to $100,000 to support school improvement projects at K-12 public schools in the U.S. Applications are accepted twice per year.

The Campus Ecology program is helping transform the nation’s college campuses into living models of an ecologically sustainable society, while training a new generation of environmental leaders. The program awards fellowships to undergraduate and graduate students who desire to help reverse global warming on campus and beyond. The maximum grant request is $3,000.

Digital Wish offers over 50 different grants for digital camera hardware and software. To apply, register your classroom at Digital Wish and enter a lesson plan. All teachers who submit a lesson plan will be automatically entered to win a mobile digital camera lab, plus as many as 50 technology grants. Grants are awarded the 15th of every month.

Grants from Toshiba America Foundation fund projects, ideas and materials math and science teachers need to innovate in their classrooms, specifically projects designed by one teacher or a small team of teachers to use in their own school. Application deadlines are based on grant amount.

EcoSolution Grants from the Captain Planet Foundation provide support for youth-led environmental projects in the form of cash grants ranging from $500-$2,500. The grants support purchase of materials and other expenses required to implement the project. Applications are accepted twice per year, each January and July.

The American Honda Foundation awards grants up to $75,000 to youth education programs focused on STEM and the environment. New applicants can apply February 1 or August 1. Returning applicants should apply May 1.

2018-2019 Educational Grants Available

This is the Updated Grant List for the 2018-2019 School Year!

Start the 2018-2019 school year off with excitement! There’s no better way to get students out of the “summer slump” and back on track than with High Touch High Tech!

Looking for ways to fund your next High Touch High Tech workshop? Whether your looking to fund your next exciting elementary programs or upcoming preschool science, the grants listed below are a fantastic resource for all educators!

January 2019

K-12 teachers from all subject areas are invited to apply for a Teach Earth Educator Fellowship to work side-by-side with world-class scientists on field research expeditions around the world. Apply by January 10, 2019.

The Balsam Mountain Trust is seeking grant proposals to support in situ conservation projects in the Southern Appalachian region.

Fund for Teachers provides PK-12 teachers with up to $5,000 per person or $10,000 per team to support professional development activities. Apply by January 31, 2018.

February 2019

The North American Native Fishes Association’s John Bondus Grant is designed to support organizations that are working to conserve native fish populations, habitats, and knowledge. Nominations due February 28, 2019.

The Association for Butterflies is accepting applications for a matching mini-grant to fund conservation projects that benefit butterflies and/or their habitat. Apply by February 28, 2019.

March 2019

Green Apple Day of Service, sponsored by the Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council, is a day when students, teachers, parents, elected officials and more come together in support of healthy, sustainable schools by participating in local service projects. Registered projects are eligible for grants and awards. Register by March 15, 2019.

June 2019

Pets in the Classroom is an educational grants program to help bring aquarium fish or small pets into PK-9th grade classrooms. You can obtain a certificate or coupon for the purchase of new pets, pet environments or pet food and supplies for existing classroom pets. Apply by June 1, 2019.

Ongoing

Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education (SFE) Fund funds projects that plant and/or maintain natural landscapes in centers of learning. Project goals should focus on the enhancement and development of an appreciation for nature using native plants. Applications are due October 15th.

ExtremeTerrain’s Clean Trail Grant Program provides eligible groups of five or more the opportunity to apply for a $250 grant to fund their next trail improvement-related project, including clean-up, restoration, or expansion. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

The Positive Payload Program is designed to benefit non-profit charitable organizations who use and rely on pickup trucks to better their community. Anyone who works with or volunteers for a charity that uses Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, GMC Sierras, or Dodge Rams may apply for a $2,000 donation. The person who nominates the selected charity will receive $200. Applications are accepted twice per year, each May 31 and December 31.

North Carolina Native Plant Society offers B. W. Wells grants of up to $1,000.00 to support stewardship of native plants and their habitats through education, protection, propagation, and advocacy. State agencies involved in native plant protection and citizens from the wider community as well as local native plant chapters and individual NCNPS members are encouraged to apply.

The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation’s Environment Program awards grants through invited proposals and the occasional funding competition. Funding opportunities may also be available through organizations administering re-granting programs supported by the foundation.

Individuals or groups currently pursuing a program or initiative designed to benefit the environment are invited to apply for a $3,500 grant from Quadratec. Applications are accepted twice per year: June 30 and October 30.

CSX provides non-profit assistance and support through a variety of programs, including grants that typically range from $2,500 to $5,000 for projects focusing on safety, community, wellness, and/or the environment. Applications accepted throughout the year.

The Laboratory Equipment Donation Program (LEDP), formerly the Energy-Related Laboratory Equipment (ERLE) Grant Program, was established by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) to grant surplus and available used energy-related laboratory equipment to universities and colleges in the United States for use in energy oriented educational programs.

Each year, Seed Savers Exchange donates seeds to hundreds of organizations and gardens in need through its Herman’s Garden Seed Donation Program.

Get “seed” money for your school through this fundraising program from Sow True Seed (STS). For every seed packet you buy through STS, they will donate 30% of the sale price to your organization.

By planting milkweeds – the host plants for monarch caterpillars – and nectar plants for adult monarchs and pollinators, you can help maintain the monarch migration and sustain the pollinators. If your school or non-profit organization qualifies, Monarch Watch will provide a free flat of 32 milkweed seedlings as well as guidance on how to create a new habitat or enhance an existing garden.

Clif Bar Family Foundation Small Grants are awarded for general organizational support or to fund specific projects that protect the Earth, create a healthy food system, increase opportunities for outdoor activity, reduce environmental health hazards, and build stronger communities. Applications are reviewed three times per year.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives serve more than 2.5 million people across North Carolina in 93 of the state’s 100 counties. The cooperatives emphasize the importance of community involvement, integrity, accountability and innovation, and as part of that commitment, sponsor Bright Ideas education grants. These grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects for students in grades K–12 throughout the state.

The K4C Microgrant Program is the bridge between ideas and action. By providing microgrants in varying amounts up to $1,000, K4C helps young citizen leaders execute and magnify their initiatives to help repair our world. Whether it is turning a vacant lot into a community garden, rebuilding a school playground or helping senior citizens get their homes ready for winter, they want to hear what project you’re passionate about. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

U.S. students ages 13-22 who are going abroad to volunteer or study in a developing country are encouraged to apply for an international service-learning mini-grant of up to $300. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

As part of Annie’s commitment to school gardens, the company created the Annie’s Garden Funder on CrowdRise to empower schools and like-minded friends to raise money for school gardens.

The grants on our page (eenorthcarolina.org) tend to specifically address environmental education and related projects in schools, nonformal education settings and communities. If you are looking for more classroom and school improvement grants, our friends at Environmental Education in Georgia include some grants of this nature in their listing at eeingeorgia.org.

CR KIDS is an innovative and easy clothing recycling and fundraising program that can run anytime of the school year. Through a partnership with PODS® and dedication to our mission of People Recycling for People, Community Recycling provides an easy and no-cost, turn-key program that provides rewards beyond standard fundraising.

Want to make a difference? Take action? Solve a tough community problem? YSA can help! Whether you’re a kid, teen, educator, or adult mentor, YSA Grants power youth-led service and service-learning projects with funding, training, and resource support. Funding amount ranges from $250 to $5,000.

The Gannett Foundation supports local organizations in communities served by the Gannett Company (i.e., Asheville). Priorities include education and neighborhood improvement, youth development, community problem-solving and environmental conservation. Applications considered twice a year. Average funding amount is $1,000 to $5,000.

ShoeBox Recycling ensures that unwanted shoes are diverted from landfills and reach the feet of people in need around the world. It is also a fundraising program that will help you earn some extra funds for your organization or any charitable organization you support! You will earn $0.25 per pound or $0.50 per pound if you send 5+ boxes at one time.

Walmart partners with organizations that operate on a national scale in communities throughout the country. They provide funds to organizations that have local affiliates around the country, and the majority of grants from this program include re-grants to implement programs in local communities. Grants funded at $250,000 or above.

The Cornell Douglas Foundation provides grants to organizations that advocate for environmental health and justice, encourage stewardship of the environment, and further respect for sustainability of resources. The average grant amount is $10,000. Applications accepted year-round.

The National Wildlife Federation’s tree bank program provides free, native tree seedlings to schools, youth groups and nonprofit organizations. Rolling application process.

The Environmental Research & Education Foundation accepts proposals for research projects and educational initiatives for developing tools that promote awareness or increase knowledge of the solid waste industry. Awards are generally up to $500,000. Pre-proposals are due by 5 p.m. each May 21 and October 1.

The Bank of America offers grants that support high-impact initiatives, organizations and the development of visionary leaders. Schools with farm-to-school programs may be eligible under the areas: (1) assisting with food access and/or (2) developing career leadership and skills. Requests for proposals are issued three times per year.

The LEGO Children’s Fund provides grants primarily in two focus areas: (1) early childhood education and development that is directly related to creativity and (2) technology and communication projects that advance learning opportunities. Typical awards are between $500 and $5,000. Applications accepted four times a year.

The Bush Fellowship is an opportunity for individuals to increase their capacity for and improve their practice of leadership, while working with others to solve tough problems in their communities. Applications accepted three times per year.

Westinghouse provides grants to nonprofit programs that support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, environmental sustainability, and community vitality. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for programs located not more than 100 miles from a Westinghouse site. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed two times per year.

Costco Wholesale grants support programs focusing on children, education and health and human services. They look to achieve the greatest impact where Costco’s employees and members live and work. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, which meet their giving guidelines and focus areas, are considered. Applications are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis.

The current rate of funding for science proposals in the U.S. is about 20%. The #SciFund Challenge is an experiment – can scientists use crowdfunding to fund their research? It is also a way to get scientists to directly engage with the public. Crowdfunding forces scientists to build public interaction and outreach into their research from day one.

Campus Progress works with youth-led community and campus groups on various issues, including the environment. Young people can join an Action Alliance with Campus Progress by applying for an organizing grant of up to $1,500 a year to help with websites, fliers or anything else they might need. Organizing grant applications are accepted year round.

FundingFactory is a free program where schools, non-profits, and charities earn points that can be redeemed for cash or products by recycling their empty printer cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation funds nonprofit organizations focusing on learning and science education, environmental and energy sustainability, community vitality and development, and public safety and human services. Eligible organizations must have a direct impact in a NiSource service area.

The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) and Dreyer’s Fruit Bars are planting orchards across the country in a collaborative program called “Communities Take Root,” and your town could be next! They invite your community to apply for this exciting opportunity to grow fresh fruit, beautify neighborhoods, strengthen relationships and build community food security—all through the simple act of planting fruit trees.

“Fruit Tree 101” is a program that creates outdoor edible orchard classrooms at public schools of all levels, across the country, to provide generations of students with environmental education opportunities and a source of organic fruit for improved school lunch nutrition.

The EarthEcho Water Planet Challenge Grants of $2,000 are available to middle and high school public educators to support service-learning programs that improve the health of the planet. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed three times per year.

When children’s lives are filled with play, we all benefit: our communities will be healthier and happier today, and our society will be stronger and more resilient tomorrow. KaBOOM! offers a number of community-built playground grants to empower friends and neighbors to collaborate for a common cause – to bring play to their communities. Applications accepted on a rolling basis.

The Simply Organic 1% fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture. One percent of sales on all Simply Organic spices, seasonings, flavors and mixes goes to support organic agriculture — through research, education and grower development.

The Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation supports grassroots organizations and movements in the U.S. working to change environmental, social, economic and political conditions to bring about a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Awesome Food, a chapter of the worldwide Awesome Foundation, is accepting grant applications to further food awesomeness in the universe. Applications are reviewed as they are received. One grant is awarded each month.

Need some funding for your crazy brilliant idea? The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler. Deadlines are rolling.

Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools is a grassroots public health effort to engage stakeholders at the local, state and national level to support salad bars in schools. The program’s goal is to fund and award 6,000 salad bars over the next three years. Any K-12 school district participating in the National School Lunch Program is eligible. Applications accepted throughout the year.

The International Paper Foundation supports non-profit organizations in communities where its employees live and work. Environmental education is one of the primary areas the Foundation supports. An online application process routes applications to the appropriate local facility for consideration. Contact your local facility for submission deadlines.

Public school teachers who register their classroom at the Adopt-a-Classroom website can be adopted by an individual, business or foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology.

Patagonia seeks proposals from organizations working on the root causes of environmental problems and approaching issues with a commitment to long-term change. Most grants are in the range of $2,500 to $15,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year at Patagonia retail stores and at company headquarters every April 30 and August 31.

Get “seed” money for your school through a fundraising program from Renee’s Garden. When you sign up for the program, 25% of every order will be donated to your school or organization.

Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas supports projects in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, environmental justice and environmental education. While proposals are accepted all year, ideal timing is during the first quarter of the calendar year.

Each week, Youth Service America names an Everyday Young Hero, age 5-25, who exemplifies an extraordinary commitment to service. This year, YSA will also select 12 winners – one per month – to receive $250 grants to continue and expand their project.

Your school will receive credit for any type of ink or toner cartridges that are not visibly damaged. You may also receive credit for qualifying small electronics, such as cell phones and MP3 players.

The Cedar Tree Foundation makes grants in the areas of children’s environmental health, sustainable agriculture, and other environmental priorities. It does not have a set budget for its grants or a pre-determined timeline. Grants most likely will be in the range of $20,000 to $100,000.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private, family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, education, human services and other causes. Applications are open to any organization that meets the grant guidelines. Grants are awarded every June and December.

Through the Sip to Support a Garden program, schools and community gardens can earn year-round funding for their garden programs. Register your school or public community garden group with Jamba’s swipe card program and every time a supporter of your group uses the card at a participating Jamba Juice, your program gets 10% of the sales.

Youth Venture inspires and invests in teams of young people to design and launch their own lasting social ventures, enabling them to have a transformative experience of leading positive social change. When the team is ready to launch, Youth Venture offers seed funding up to $1,000, guidance, tools and support, and a supportive network of fellow Youth Venturers.

The Northrop Grumman Corporation supports communities, projects and organizations, particularly where its employees live and work, with financial, in-kind and volunteer resources. Grants are awarded to accredited schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for projects focused on education and the environment, among others. Northrop Grumman does not accept unsolicited requests for funding.

These grants seek to strengthen the stewardship of public lands by strengthening Friends Groups through funding for organizational capacity building. Applications are accepted April 30 and October 30 every year.

The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund provides grants in support of wildlife conservation projects – including conservation education. Grants generally range from $5,000 to $25,000. Applications are accepted twice per year: April 30 and November 30.

The Office Depot Foundation awards grants to support activities that serve, teach and inspire children, youth and families, and to support civic organizations and activities that serve community needs. Grants range from $50 to $3,000. Applications are reviewed year-round.

Hi eenorthcarolina.org users! It’s our privilege to provide this resource for you. Have you applied for, or even better, received a grant or contest that you learned about from this page? Please let us know about it. Just send a quick email to Marty.Wiggins@ncdenr.gov and let us know. This will help us better serve you!

The Verizon Foundation awards grants to K-12 schools to increase literacy and educational achievement levels. Proposals are considered from public and private elementary and secondary schools registered with the National Center for Education Statistics. Unsolicited proposals are reviewed on a continuous calendar year basis, from January 1 – October 14.

The ING Foundation awards grants of $2,500 to $100,000 and more to non-profit organizations. The Foundation focuses on financial literacy, children’s education, diversity and environmental sustainability. Grant requests are reviewed quarterly.

The MeadWestvaco Foundation seeks to provide leadership for advancing research, education and public dialogue on public policy issues of special interest, such as the economy, regulation and environmental stewardship. Proposals for grants are accepted throughout the year. Grants range from $250 to $10,000.

WaysToHelp.org invites teens in the U.S. to apply for grants to fund their community service ideas across any one of 16 issue areas, including the environment. Grant requests are reviewed and responded to on a monthly basis. Grants up to $500 are awarded.

The objective of the National Geographic Conservation Trust is to support conservation activities around the world as they fit within the mission of the National Geographic Society. The trust will fund projects that contribute significantly to the preservation and sustainable use of the Earth’s biological, cultural, and historical resources. While grant amounts vary greatly, most range from $15,000 to $20,000 each. Pre-applications accepted throughout the year, but should be submitted at least eight months prior to anticipated field dates.

Recognizing that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organizations, and corporate partners for momentum, Waste Management lends its support and services to programs related to environmental education, the environment and the community. Applications accepted year-round.

The BoatU.S. Foundation awards nonprofit organizations up to $10,000 for the promotion of safe and clean boating education. Past topics have ranged from public service announcements on the effects of boating under the influence to hands-on education about the effects of marine debris. Letters of intent accepted year-round.

Orchards are donated where the harvest will best serve communities for generations, such as community gardens, public schools and parks, low-income neighborhoods, Native American reservations, international hunger relief sites, and animal sanctuaries. Fruit Tree 101 grants for public schools only. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

The USDA has programs throughout its operations that can assist farmers, help consumers access nutritious foods, and support rural community development. This page lists several programs and grants to assist those involved in local food systems, food and nutrition-related community development and farm to school programs.

The Wal-mart State Giving Program seeks to support organizations with programs that align with its mission to create opportunities so people can live better. The Foundation has four areas of focus: Education, Workforce Development / Economic Opportunity, Health & Wellness, and Environmental Sustainability. Minimum grants are $25,000. The submission deadlines are April 17 and September 18 each year.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc. and the Toyota USA Foundation support programs in education, environment and safety. Applicant organizations must be tax-exempt. Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports organizations that improve the quality of life in communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Grants are awarded for educational efforts, community enrichment, environmental programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Requests are reviewed on a rolling cycle throughout the year. Due to year-end limited funding, early submission is encouraged.

The Annenberg Foundation focuses its grantmaking on education and youth development; arts, culture, and humanities; civic and community; animal services and the environment; and health and human services. Letters of inquiry that address these interests are accepted throughout the year.

Competitive grants are available to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations in the U.S. that facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Only proposals from grassroots, constituent-led organizations are considered. Letters of interest may be submitted at any time.

K-12 teachers who develop or apply science, math and technology may qualify for a grant of up to $250. Grants may be used for demonstration kits, science supplies, math and science software and other materials to help make science, math and technology come alive in the classroom. Grants will be considered in November, January and April.

GCA offers several research fellowships and scholarships for undergrads, grads and people already in the field. Topics include: ecological restoration, urban forestry, environmental studies, wetland studies, botany, desert studies and more.

Each business day, 4imprint gives a worthy organization $500 in promotional products to spread the word, recruit volunteers, thank donors, offer comfort to someone in need or in some other way turns one thing into something much more.

The ESMM Community Grants Program provides funding to local communities to implement strategies that advance the goals and objectives of Eat Smart, Move More…NC’s Plan.

Funding is awarded yearly, based on availability of funds. The RFA is generally released in May, with funding distributed to grant recipients in September.

Young people ages 18-25 are eligible to apply for grants to pursue research, exploration, and conservation-related projects consistent with National Geographic’s existing grant programs, including the Committee for Research and Exploration, the Expeditions Council, and the Conservation Trust. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Environmental Education Centers may be eligible for a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (Federal Agencies and for-profit institutions are not elegible.) The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The Fund for Wild Nature provides “small grants to small groups who get things done.” The fund provides money for campaigns (including development of citizen science endeavors) to save and restore native species, biological diversity and wild ecosystems. Most grants awarded in the past ranged from $1,000-$3,000. Applications accepted each May 1 and October 1.

The Lowe’s Toolbox for Education program provides grant awards from $2,000 to $100,000 to support school improvement projects at K-12 public schools in the U.S. Applications are accepted twice per year.

The Campus Ecology program is helping transform the nation’s college campuses into living models of an ecologically sustainable society, while training a new generation of environmental leaders. The program awards fellowships to undergraduate and graduate students who desire to help reverse global warming on campus and beyond. The maximum grant request is $3,000.

Digital Wish offers over 50 different grants for digital camera hardware and software. To apply, register your classroom at Digital Wish and enter a lesson plan. All teachers who submit a lesson plan will be automatically entered to win a mobile digital camera lab, plus as many as 50 technology grants. Grants are awarded the 15th of every month.

Grants from Toshiba America Foundation fund projects, ideas and materials math and science teachers need to innovate in their classrooms, specifically projects designed by one teacher or a small team of teachers to use in their own school. Application deadlines are based on grant amount.

EcoSolution Grants from the Captain Planet Foundation provide support for youth-led environmental projects in the form of cash grants ranging from $500-$2,500. The grants support purchase of materials and other expenses required to implement the project. Applications are accepted twice per year, each January and July.

The American Honda Foundation awards grants up to $75,000 to youth education programs focused on STEM and the environment. New applicants can apply February 1 or August 1. Returning applicants should apply May 1.

 

2016-2017 Educational Grants

This is the Updated Grant List for the 2016-2017 School Year!

Start the 2016-2017 school year off with excitement! There’s no better way to get students out of the “summer slump” and back on track than with High Touch High Tech!

Looking for ways to fund your next High Touch High Tech workshop? Whether your looking to fund your next exciting elementary programs or upcoming preschool science, the grants listed below are a fantastic resource for all educators!

July 2016

The Mazda Foundation awards grants to programs promoting education and literacy, environmental conservation, cross-cultural understanding, social welfare and scientific research. Apply by July 1, 2016.

The core Fulbright Scholar Program provides teaching and/or research grants to U.S. faculty and experienced professionals in a wide variety of academic and professional fields, including environmental science. Apply by August 1, 2016.

The Gopher Turtle Council’s environmental education grant supports educators and organizations committed to developing educational projects about the gopher tortoise and the world in which it lives. Apply by August 31, 2016.

       
The Fall 2016 grant cycle will open on August 1, 2016 and close on September 26, 2016. 

The annual Lowe’s Toolbox for Education grant program is a great source of funding for improvement projects at public schools in the U.S. Grant funding falls into three categories, including “technology upgrades, tools for STEM programs, and facility renovations and safety improvements. If you’re looking to beautify your school, or enhance your technology and STEM offerings, this is the program for you.
Prize: Grants can range from $2,000 to $100,000, which a large majority falling in the $2,000 to $5,000 range.

Deadline: August 1 to November 1, 2016

The American Honda Foundation engages in grant making that reflects the basic tenets, beliefs and philosophies of Honda companies, which are characterized by the following qualities: imaginative, creative, youthful, forward-thinking, scientific, humanistic and innovative. We support youth education with a specific focus on the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects in addition to the environment. Applications are accepted four times per year — February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.

Deadline: August 1 to September 30, 2016

Would you like to take your students on a field trip next year, but the challenge is funding is holding you back? Consider applying for a Target grant for class field trips. Each year, Target supports teachers across the country, providing small, one-time grants to help fund the out-of-class learning experiences. Interested grant seekers can apply online and view local learning field trips that have been funded.
Prize: Grants are available up to $700.

September 2014

 
Deadline: September 30, 2016

Project Learning Tree® (PLT), an award-winning national environmental education program for educators and students in grades PreK-12, has GreenWorks! grants of up to $1,000 available to schools and youth organizations for environmental service-learning projects. Students “learn by doing” through community action projects they design and implement to improve an aspect of their school or neighborhood’s environment. These environmental action projects blend community service with academic curriculum to link classroom learning to the real world.

Sponsored by North Carolina’s Touchstone Energy® cooperatives, Bright Ideas education grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects that fall outside normal funding parameters. Each year, about $600,000 is given out to teachers across the state by our state’s electric cooperatives. Applications are accepted from April through mid-September.

Deadlines: September 30th- typically for spring and summer projects
January 31st- typically for fall and winter projects

The Captain Planet Foundation provides grants of up to $2,500. The Foundation supports high-quality, hands-on environmental stewardship projects that have enabled more than 1.1M youth across the U.S. and around the world make significant environmental improvements to their schools or communities.

Ongoing

K-12 teachers who develop or apply science, math and technology may qualify for a grant of up to $250. Grants may be used for demonstration kits, science supplies, math and science software and other materials to help make science, math and technology come alive in the classroom. Grants will be considered in November, January and April.

As part of Annie’s commitment to school gardens, the company created the Annie’s Garden Funder on CrowdRise to empower schools and like-minded friends to raise money for school gardens.

Schools that receive a honeybee observation hive agree to run an annual fundraiser selling Bee Cause Honey to help pay for the ongoing care of the bee family they have adopted and for the installation of honeybee observation hives at other schools.

 

Clif Bar Family Foundation Small Grants are awarded for general organizational support or to fund specific projects that protect the Earth, create a healthy food system, increase opportunities for outdoor activity, reduce environmental health hazards, and build stronger communities. The grants, averaging approximately $8,000 each, are awarded four times per year.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives serve more than 2.5 million people across North Carolina in 93 of the state’s 100 counties. The cooperatives emphasize the importance of community involvement, integrity, accountability and innovation, and as part of that commitment, sponsor Bright Ideas education grants. These grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects for students in grades K–12 throughout the state.

Deadlines: August 29, 2016 or February 28, 2017

The Gannett Foundation supports local organizations in communities served by the Gannett Company. In North Carolina, this includes the Asheville and Greensboro markets. Priorities include education and neighborhood improvement, youth development, community problem-solving and environmental conservation. Applications considered twice a year. 

Through its National Giving Program, the Walmart Foundation awards grants of $250,000 and above to non-profit organizations that operate on a national scope through chapters/affiliates in many states around the country or through programs that operate regionally/locally but seek funding to replicate program activities nationally. The Foundation accepts program ideas year-round using the Letter of Inquiry format only.

The Cornell Douglas Foundation provides grants to organizations that advocate for environmental health and justice, encourage stewardship of the environment, and further respect for sustainability of resources. The average grant amount is $10,000. Applications accepted year-round.

The National Wildlife Federation’s tree bank program provides free trees to schools, youth groups and nonprofit organizations. Apply by January 31 for spring planting dates (February-May 10) and by September 21 for fall planting dates (October-January).

The Environmental Research & Education Foundation accepts proposals for research projects and educational initiatives for developing tools that promote awareness or increase knowledge of the solid waste industry. Awards are generally up to $500,000. Pre-proposals are due by 5 p.m. each May 21 and October 1.    

FundingFactory is a free program where schools, non-profits, and charities earn points that can be redeemed for cash or products by recycling their empty printer cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics.

Deadlines: September 1, 2016 and April 1, 2017

The NiSource Charitable Foundation funds nonprofit organizations focusing on learning and science education, environmental and energy sustainability, community vitality and development, and public safety and human services. Eligible organizations must have a direct impact in a NiSource service area.

The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) and Dreyer’s Fruit Bars are planting orchards across the country in a collaborative program called “Communities Take Root,” and your town could be next! They invite your community to apply for this exciting opportunity to grow fresh fruit, beautify neighborhoods, strengthen relationships and build community food security—all through the simple act of planting fruit trees.

The Simply Organic 1% fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture. One percent of sales on all Simply Organic spices, seasonings, flavors and mixes goes to support organic agriculture — through research, education and grower development. 

Need some funding for your crazy brilliant idea? The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler. Deadlines are rolling.

Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools is a grassroots public health effort to engage stakeholders at the local, state and national level to support salad bars in schools. The program’s goal is to fund and award 6,000 salad bars over the next three years. Any K-12 school district participating in the National School Lunch Program is eligible. Applications accepted throughout the year.

Applications accepted after August 1, 2016

Pets in the Classroom is an educational grants program to help bring aquarium fish or small pets into PK-8th grade classrooms. You can obtain a grant or coupon for the purchase of new pets, pet environments or pet food and supplies for existing classroom pets. Applications accepted year-round.

The International Paper Foundation supports non-profit organizations in communities where its employees live and work. Environmental education is one of the primary areas the Foundation supports. An online application process routes applications to the appropriate local facility for consideration. Contact your local facility for submission deadlines.

Public school teachers who register their classroom at the Adopt-a-Classroom website can be adopted by an individual, business or foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology. 

The Lawrence Foundation is a private, family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, education, human services and other causes. Applications are open to any organization that meets the grant guidelines. Two grant cycles a year. The deadlines are April 30 and November 1.    

WaysToHelp.org invites teens in the U.S. to apply for grants to fund their community service ideas across any one of 16 issue areas, including the environment. Grant requests are reviewed and responded to on a monthly basis. Grants up to $500 are awarded.

Recognizing that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organizations, and corporate partners for momentum, Waste Management lends its support and services to programs related to environmental education, the environment and the community. Applications accepted year-round.

The Norcross Wildlife Foundation supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. working to protect wild land. Grants averaging $5,000 are provided primarily for program-related office and field equipment and public education and outreach materials. The Foundation also provides no-interest loans to acquire land prioritized for conservation. Applications may be submitted at any time.

Competitive grants are available to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations in the U.S. that facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Only proposals from grassroots, constituent-led organizations are considered. Letters of interest may be submitted at any time.

Young people ages 18-25 are eligible to apply for grants to pursue research, exploration, and conservation-related projects consistent with National Geographic’s existing grant programs, including the Committee for Research and Exploration, the Expeditions Council, and the Conservation Trust. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Environmental Education Centers may be eligible for a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (Federal Agencies and for-profit institutions are not elegible.) The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The Fund for Wild Nature provides “small grants to small groups who get things done.” The fund provides money for campaigns (including development of citizen science endeavors) to save and restore native species, biological diversity and wild ecosystems. Most grants awarded in the past ranged from $1,000-$3,000.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has initiated a small grants program in North Carolina and Virginia as part of its strategic plan to identify and cultivate its constituency, to build value with the supporting public, to create community awareness of the Parkway as an economic and quality of life resource, and to assist the Blue Ridge Parkway with the accomplishment of its goals.

Grants in amounts up to $500 will be awarded upon successful application from private agencies, schools, arts councils, and other not-for-profit organizations whose programs and projects support the mission of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Deadline: January 23, 2017

Are you succeeding in science lab instruction with minimal equipment? The Shell Science Lab Challenge gives you an opportunity to share your exemplary approach for a chance to win a school science lab makeover support package valued at $20,000!

The AIAA offers classroom grants of up to $200 for science and math programs. K-12 teachers who use science, math, or technology in the classroom can apply.

 

Mini-grants are available from the Entomological Foundation for curriculum development efforts or workshops emphasizing the uses of insects in K-12 educational settings.

 

The NSTA has more than a dozen grant and recognition programs for teachers.

 

Five hundred dollar grants are available annually from the NWA for K-12 teachers who help to improve meteorology education for their students. The selected teachers can use the funds to take an accredited course in atmospheric sciences, attend a relevant workshop or conference, or purchase scientific materials and equipment for the classroom.

 

Up to $10,000 to student/teacher groups for projects tackling environmental issues.

The LEGO Children’s Fund provides grants primarily in two focus areas: (1) early childhood education and development that is directly related to creativity and (2) technology and communication projects that advance learning opportunities. Typical awards are between $500 and $5,000. Applications accepted four times a year.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports organizations that improve the quality of life in communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Grants are awarded for educational efforts, community enrichment, environmental programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Requests are reviewed on a rolling cycle throughout the year. Due to year-end limited funding, early submission is encouraged.

The Annenberg Foundation focuses its grantmaking on education and youth development; arts, culture, and humanities; civic and community; animal services and the environment; and health and human services. Letters of inquiry that address these interests are accepted throughout the year.

2015-2016 School Year Grants!

Start the 2015-2016 school year off with excitement! There’s no better way to get students out of the “summer slump” and back on track than with High Touch High Tech!

Looking for ways to fund your next High Touch High Tech workshop? Whether your looking to fund your next exciting elementary programs or upcoming senior science, the grants listed below are a fantastic resource for all educators!

August 2015

The Gopher Turtle Council’s environmental education grant supports educators and organizations committed to developing educational projects about the gopher tortoise and the world in which it lives. Apply by August 31, 2015.

The mission of Hot Planet / Cool Athletes is to ensure the next generation is educated and energized to lead the fight against climate change. Students can apply for the chance to win up to $5,000 to create green programs at their schools. Apply by August 31, 2015.

Deadline: August 1 to November 1, 2015

The American Honda Foundation engages in grant making that reflects the basic tenets, beliefs and philosophies of Honda companies, which are characterized by the following qualities: imaginative, creative, youthful, forward-thinking, scientific, humanistic and innovative. We support youth education with a specific focus on the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects in addition to the environment. Applications are accepted four times per year — February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.

Creative and stimulating projects can go a long way in helping students understand material. Our State invites you to submit a classroom project idea to be completed by May 31, 2015 (during the 2014-2015 school year). One project will be selected by the judges to receive up to $500 to bring the project to life.

       
Deadline: August 3 to October 16, 2015

The annual Lowe’s Toolbox for Education grant program is a great source of funding for improvement projects at public schools in the U.S. Grant funding falls into three categories, including “technology upgrades, tools for STEM programs, and facility renovations and safety improvements. If you’re looking to beautify your school, or enhance your technology and STEM offerings, this is the program for you.
Prize: Grants can range from $2,000 to $100,000, which a large majority falling in the $2,000 to $5,000 range.

Deadline: August 1 to September 30, 2015

Would you like to take your students on a field trip next year, but the challenge is funding is holding you back? Consider applying for a Target grant for class field trips. Each year, Target supports teachers across the country, providing small, one-time grants to help fund the out-of-class learning experiences. Interested grant seekers can apply online and view local learning field trips that have been funded.
Prize: Grants are available up to $700.

September 2014

Deadline: September 28, 2015

Organizations, including schools, non-profits and government agencies, are invited to apply for grants up to $1,500 to develop or implement environmental curricula that integrate hands-on ecology exercises into the classroom. One-page pre-proposals are due September 28, 2014.

 
Deadline: September 30, 2015

Project Learning Tree® (PLT), an award-winning national environmental education program for educators and students in grades PreK-12, has GreenWorks! grants of up to $1,000 available to schools and youth organizations for environmental service-learning projects. Students “learn by doing” through community action projects they design and implement to improve an aspect of their school or neighborhood’s environment. These environmental action projects blend community service with academic curriculum to link classroom learning to the real world.

Sponsored by North Carolina’s Touchstone Energy® cooperatives, Bright Ideas education grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects that fall outside normal funding parameters. Each year, about $600,000 is given out to teachers across the state by our state’s electric cooperatives. Applications are accepted from April through mid-September.

The Captain Planet Foundation provides grants of up to $2,500. The Foundation supports high-quality, hands-on environmental stewardship projects that have enabled more than 1.1M youth across the U.S. and around the world make significant environmental improvements to their schools or communities.

Ongoing

As part of Annie’s commitment to school gardens, the company created the Annie’s Garden Funder on CrowdRise to empower schools and like-minded friends to raise money for school gardens.

Schools that receive a honeybee observation hive agree to run an annual fundraiser selling Bee Cause Honey to help pay for the ongoing care of the bee family they have adopted and for the installation of honeybee observation hives at other schools.

The Karma for Cara Foundation is encouraging kids 18 and under to apply for funds between $250 and $1,000 to complete service projects in their communities. Whether it is turning a vacant lot into a community garden, rebuilding a school playground or helping senior citizens get their homes ready for winter, they want to hear what project you’re passionate about. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives serve more than 2.5 million people across North Carolina in 93 of the state’s 100 counties. The cooperatives emphasize the importance of community involvement, integrity, accountability and innovation, and as part of that commitment, sponsor Bright Ideas education grants. These grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects for students in grades K–12 throughout the state.

 

Clif Bar Family Foundation Small Grants are awarded for general organizational support or to fund specific projects that protect the Earth, create a healthy food system, increase opportunities for outdoor activity, reduce environmental health hazards, and build stronger communities. The grants, averaging approximately $8,000 each, are awarded four times per year.

Community Recycling KIDS [CR KIDS], an environmentally conscious textile recycling program that collects clothing, bags, belts, and shoes you no longer need. These materials will be recycled for reuse around the globe. We are making recycling convenient, fun, rewarding and educational for kids. Community Recycling is founded on the principle that we are People Recycling For People. Won’t you join us in our movement to inspire kids to collect textiles for reuse, creating a lifetime of good choices and a greener nature?

Want to make a difference? Take action? Solve a tough community problem? YSA can help! Whether you’re a kid, teen, educator, or adult mentor, YSA Grants power youth-led service and service-learning projects with funding, training, and resource support.

The World We Want Foundation promotes and supports youth making positive social change in their communities and around the world. The Foundation works with and through the partner organizations and mentors that applicants provide, helps young people design and conduct meaningful social action projects, provides micro-grants to support projects, and more.

The Gannett Foundation supports local organizations in communities served by the Gannett Company. In North Carolina, this includes the Asheville and Greensboro markets. Priorities include education and neighborhood improvement, youth development, community problem-solving and environmental conservation. Applications considered twice a year: February 15 and August 15 (some areas may have earlier deadlines).

Shoe recycling is a simple way for your organization or school to make money. ShoeBox Recycling will pay $.50 per pound for paired, secondhand shoes. No shipping costs!

Through its National Giving Program, the Walmart Foundation awards grants of $250,000 and above to non-profit organizations that operate on a national scope through chapters/affiliates in many states around the country or through programs that operate regionally/locally but seek funding to replicate program activities nationally. The Foundation accepts program ideas year-round using the Letter of Inquiry format only.

The Cornell Douglas Foundation provides grants to organizations that advocate for environmental health and justice, encourage stewardship of the environment, and further respect for sustainability of resources. The average grant amount is $10,000. Applications accepted year-round.

The National Wildlife Federation’s tree bank program provides free trees to schools, youth groups and nonprofit organizations. Apply by January 31 for spring planting dates (February-May 10) and by September 21 for fall planting dates (October-January).

The Environmental Research & Education Foundation accepts proposals for research projects and educational initiatives for developing tools that promote awareness or increase knowledge of the solid waste industry. Awards are generally up to $500,000. Pre-proposals are due by 5 p.m. each May 21 and October 1.

The Bank of America offers grants that support high-impact initiatives, organizations and the development of visionary leaders. Schools with farm-to-school programs may be eligible under the areas: (1) assisting with food access and/or (2) developing career leadership and skills. Requests for proposals are issued three times per year.

The Bush Fellowship is an opportunity for individuals to increase their capacity for and improve their practice of leadership, while working with others to solve tough problems in their communities. Applications accepted three times per year.

Westinghouse provides grants to nonprofit programs that support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, environmental sustainability, and community vitality. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for programs located not more than 100 miles from a Westinghouse site. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed four times per year.

Costco Wholesale grants support programs focusing on children, education and health and human services. They look to achieve the greatest impact where Costco’s employees and members live and work. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, which meet their giving guidelines and focus areas, are considered. Applications are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis.

The current rate of funding for science proposals in the U.S. is about 20%. The #SciFund Challenge is an experiment – can scientists use crowdfunding to fund their research? It is also a way to get scientists to directly engage with the public. Crowdfunding forces scientists to build public interaction and outreach into their research from day one.

Campus Progress works with youth-led community and campus groups on various issues, including the environment. Young people can join an Action Alliance with Campus Progress by applying for an organizing grant of up to $1,500 a year to help with websites, fliers or anything else they might need. Organizing grant applications are accepted year round.

FundingFactory is a free program where schools, non-profits, and charities earn points that can be redeemed for cash or products by recycling their empty printer cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation funds nonprofit organizations focusing on learning and science education, environmental and energy sustainability, community vitality and development, and public safety and human services. Eligible organizations must have a direct impact in a NiSource service area.

The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) and Dreyer’s Fruit Bars are planting orchards across the country in a collaborative program called “Communities Take Root,” and your town could be next! They invite your community to apply for this exciting opportunity to grow fresh fruit, beautify neighborhoods, strengthen relationships and build community food security—all through the simple act of planting fruit trees.

“Fruit Tree 101” is a program that creates outdoor edible orchard classrooms at public schools of all levels, across the country, to provide generations of students with environmental education opportunities and a source of organic fruit for improved school lunch nutrition.

The EarthEcho Water Planet Challenge Grants of $2,000 are available to middle and high school public educators to support service-learning programs that improve the health of the planet. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed three times per year.

The Simply Organic 1% fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture. One percent of sales on all Simply Organic spices, seasonings, flavors and mixes goes to support organic agriculture — through research, education and grower development.

The Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation supports grassroots organizations and movements in the U.S. working to change environmental, social, economic and political conditions to bring about a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Need some funding for your crazy brilliant idea? The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler. Deadlines are rolling.

Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools is a grassroots public health effort to engage stakeholders at the local, state and national level to support salad bars in schools. The program’s goal is to fund and award 6,000 salad bars over the next three years. Any K-12 school district participating in the National School Lunch Program is eligible. Applications accepted throughout the year.

Pets in the Classroom is an educational grants program to help bring aquarium fish or small pets into PK-8th grade classrooms. You can obtain a grant or coupon for the purchase of new pets, pet environments or pet food and supplies for existing classroom pets. Applications accepted year-round.

The International Paper Foundation supports non-profit organizations in communities where its employees live and work. Environmental education is one of the primary areas the Foundation supports. An online application process routes applications to the appropriate local facility for consideration. Contact your local facility for submission deadlines.

Public school teachers who register their classroom at the Adopt-a-Classroom website can be adopted by an individual, business or foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology.

Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas supports projects in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, environmental justice and environmental education. While proposals are accepted all year, ideal timing is during the first quarter of the calendar year.

The Cedar Tree Foundation makes grants in the following areas of concern: environmental education, environmental health and sustainable agriculture. Particular consideration is given to proposals demonstrating strong elements of environmental justice and/or conservation within the program areas listed above. Letters of inquiry accepted year-round.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private, family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, education, human services and other causes. Applications are open to any organization that meets the grant guidelines. Two grant cycles a year. The deadlines are April 30 and November 1.

Through the Sip to Support a Garden program, schools and community gardens can earn year-round funding for their garden programs. Register your school or public community garden group with Jamba’s swipe card program and every time a supporter of your group uses the card at a participating Jamba Juice, your program gets 10% of the sales.

Eligible schools may apply for up to $4,000 to help increase awareness of and access to nutrient-rich foods and physical activity opportunities for students. The grants can be used for a variety of activities, tools, materials, student and staff incentives, staff development, and overall Fuel Up to Play 60 program implementation. Applications accepted four times per year.

These grants seek to strengthen the stewardship of public lands by strengthening Friends Groups through funding for organizational capacity building. Applications are accepted April 30 and October 30 every year.

These grants support health, including food security and improved nutrition; environment, including water security, sustainable agriculture, and adaptive approaches to climate change; and education, including access to education and training for the underserved and women’s empowerment. Requests up to $100,000 are accepted year-round.

The Office Depot Foundation awards grants to support activities that serve, teach and inspire children, youth and families, and to support civic organizations and activities that serve community needs. Grants range from $50 to $3,000. Applications are reviewed year-round.

The Verizon Foundation awards grants to K-12 schools to increase literacy and educational achievement levels. Proposals are considered from public and private elementary and secondary schools registered with the National Center for Education Statistics. Unsolicited proposals are reviewed on a continuous calendar year basis, from January 1 – October 14.

The ING Foundation awards grants of $2,500 to $100,000 and more to non-profit organizations. The Foundation focuses on financial literacy, children’s education, diversity and environmental sustainability. Grant requests are reviewed quarterly.

The MeadWestvaco Foundation seeks to provide leadership for advancing research, education and public dialogue on public policy issues of special interest, such as the economy, regulation and environmental stewardship. Proposals for grants are accepted throughout the year. Grants range from $250 to $10,000.

WaysToHelp.org invites teens in the U.S. to apply for grants to fund their community service ideas across any one of 16 issue areas, including the environment. Grant requests are reviewed and responded to on a monthly basis. Grants up to $500 are awarded.

Recognizing that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organizations, and corporate partners for momentum, Waste Management lends its support and services to programs related to environmental education, the environment and the community. Applications accepted year-round.

The Norcross Wildlife Foundation supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. working to protect wild land. Grants averaging $5,000 are provided primarily for program-related office and field equipment and public education and outreach materials. The Foundation also provides no-interest loans to acquire land prioritized for conservation. Applications may be submitted at any time.

Competitive grants are available to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations in the U.S. that facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Only proposals from grassroots, constituent-led organizations are considered. Letters of interest may be submitted at any time.

Young people ages 18-25 are eligible to apply for grants to pursue research, exploration, and conservation-related projects consistent with National Geographic’s existing grant programs, including the Committee for Research and Exploration, the Expeditions Council, and the Conservation Trust. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Environmental Education Centers may be eligible for a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (Federal Agencies and for-profit institutions are not elegible.) The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The Fund for Wild Nature provides “small grants to small groups who get things done.” The fund provides money for campaigns (including development of citizen science endeavors) to save and restore native species, biological diversity and wild ecosystems. Most grants awarded in the past ranged from $1,000-$3,000.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has initiated a small grants program in North Carolina and Virginia as part of its strategic plan to identify and cultivate its constituency, to build value with the supporting public, to create community awareness of the Parkway as an economic and quality of life resource, and to assist the Blue Ridge Parkway with the accomplishment of its goals.

Grants in amounts up to $500 will be awarded upon successful application from private agencies, schools, arts councils, and other not-for-profit organizations whose programs and projects support the mission of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Deadline: December 16, 2015

Are you succeeding in science lab instruction with minimal equipment? The Shell Science Lab Challenge gives you an opportunity to share your exemplary approach for a chance to win a school science lab makeover support package valued at $20,000!

Invigorate student participation through a national K-12 recycling competition.

The AIAA offers classroom grants of up to $200 for science and math programs. K-12 teachers who use science, math, or technology in the classroom can apply.

 

Mini-grants are available from the Entomological Foundation for curriculum development efforts or workshops emphasizing the uses of insects in K-12 educational settings.

 

The NSTA has more than a dozen grant and recognition programs for teachers.

 

Five hundred dollar grants are available annually from the NWA for K-12 teachers who help to improve meteorology education for their students. The selected teachers can use the funds to take an accredited course in atmospheric sciences, attend a relevant workshop or conference, or purchase scientific materials and equipment for the classroom.

 

Up to $10,000 to student/teacher groups for projects tackling environmental issues.

2014-2015 School Year Grants!

CLICK HERE FOR OUR UPDATED LIST OF GRANTS & FUNDING

FOR THE 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR!!

 

Start the 2014-2015 school year off with excitement! There’s no better way to get students out of the “summer slump” and back on track than with High Touch High Tech!

Looking for ways to fund your next High Touch High Tech workshop? Whether your looking to fund your next exciting elementary programs or upcoming senior science, the grants listed below are a fantastic resource for all educators!

August 2014

Creative and stimulating projects can go a long way in helping students understand material. Our State invites you to submit a classroom project idea to be completed by May 31, 2015 (during the 2014-2015 school year). One project will be selected by the judges to receive up to $500 to bring the project to life.

September 2014

Organizations, including schools, non-profits and government agencies, are invited to apply for grants up to $1,500 to develop or implement environmental curricula that integrate hands-on ecology exercises into the classroom. One-page pre-proposals are due September 14, 2014.

Sponsored by North Carolina’s Touchstone Energy® cooperatives, Bright Ideas education grants provide funding for hands-on classroom projects that fall outside normal funding parameters. Each year, about $600,000 is given out to teachers across the state by our state’s electric cooperatives. Applications are accepted from April through mid-September.

Do you have an idea for a school/community native plant garden, forest improvement project, streamside restoration plan, recycling program, energy conservation project or any other project that could help address climate change? Need funds to implement it? Apply for a ClimateChangeLIVE GreenWorks! Grant by September 30, 2014.

The Captain Planet Foundation provides grants of up to $2,500 to school and community groups to support hands-on environmental projects. Applications are due by September 30, 2014.

November 2014

Cornell’s BirdSleuth K-12 initiative is awarding binoculars to schools where educators have made outstanding efforts to engage their students in citizen science. Program ends in November 2014.

Ongoing

The grants on our page (eenorthcarolina.org) tend to specifically address environmental education and related projects in schools, nonformal education settings and communities. If you are looking for more classroom and school improvement grants, our friends at Environmental Education in Georgia include some grants of this nature in their listing at eeingeorgia.org.

Community Recycling KIDS [CR KIDS], an environmentally conscious textile recycling program that collects clothing, bags, belts, and shoes you no longer need. These materials will be recycled for reuse around the globe. We are making recycling convenient, fun, rewarding and educational for kids. Community Recycling is founded on the principle that we are People Recycling For People. Won’t you join us in our movement to inspire kids to collect textiles for reuse, creating a lifetime of good choices and a greener nature?

Want to make a difference? Take action? Solve a tough community problem? YSA can help! Whether you’re a kid, teen, educator, or adult mentor, YSA Grants power youth-led service and service-learning projects with funding, training, and resource support.

The World We Want Foundation promotes and supports youth making positive social change in their communities and around the world. The Foundation works with and through the partner organizations and mentors that applicants provide, helps young people design and conduct meaningful social action projects, provides micro-grants to support projects, and more.

To promote stewardship of the Albemarle-Pamlico region’s natural resources, APNEP supports a variety of educational programs and initiatives. These include an annual teacher institute, the Shad in the Classroom partnership, our Citizens’ Monitoring Network, recurring grants which may be used to construct outdoor education facilities, and other opportunities. Visit http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/apnep/educators for an overview of current offerings, or sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/apneplist to hear more from us.

The Gannett Foundation supports local organizations in communities served by the Gannett Company. In North Carolina, this includes the Asheville and Greensboro markets. Priorities include education and neighborhood improvement, youth development, community problem-solving and environmental conservation. Applications considered twice a year: February 15 and August 15 (some areas may have earlier deadlines).

Shoe recycling is a simple way for your organization or school to make money. ShoeBox Recycling will pay $.50 per pound for paired, secondhand shoes. No shipping costs!

Through its National Giving Program, the Walmart Foundation awards grants of $250,000 and above to non-profit organizations that operate on a national scope through chapters/affiliates in many states around the country or through programs that operate regionally/locally but seek funding to replicate program activities nationally. The Foundation accepts program ideas year-round using the Letter of Inquiry format only.

The Cornell Douglas Foundation provides grants to organizations that advocate for environmental health and justice, encourage stewardship of the environment, and further respect for sustainability of resources. The average grant amount is $10,000. Applications accepted year-round.

The National Wildlife Federation’s tree bank program provides free trees to schools, youth groups and nonprofit organizations. Apply by January 31 for spring planting dates (February-May 10) and by September 21 for fall planting dates (October-January).

The Environmental Research & Education Foundation accepts proposals for research projects and educational initiatives for developing tools that promote awareness or increase knowledge of the solid waste industry. Awards are generally up to $500,000. Pre-proposals are due by 5 p.m. each May 21 and October 1.

The Bank of America offers grants that support high-impact initiatives, organizations and the development of visionary leaders. Schools with farm-to-school programs may be eligible under the areas: (1) assisting with food access and/or (2) developing career leadership and skills. Requests for proposals are issued three times per year.

The LEGO Children’s Fund provides grants primarily in two focus areas: (1) early childhood education and development that is directly related to creativity and (2) technology and communication projects that advance learning opportunities. Typical awards are between $500 and $5,000. Applications accepted four times a year.

The Bush Fellowship is an opportunity for individuals to increase their capacity for and improve their practice of leadership, while working with others to solve tough problems in their communities. Applications accepted three times per year.

Westinghouse provides grants to nonprofit programs that support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, environmental sustainability, and community vitality. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for programs located not more than 100 miles from a Westinghouse site. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed four times per year.

Costco Wholesale grants support programs focusing on children, education and health and human services. They look to achieve the greatest impact where Costco’s employees and members live and work. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, which meet their giving guidelines and focus areas, are considered. Applications are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis.

The current rate of funding for science proposals in the U.S. is about 20%. The #SciFund Challenge is an experiment – can scientists use crowdfunding to fund their research? It is also a way to get scientists to directly engage with the public. Crowdfunding forces scientists to build public interaction and outreach into their research from day one.

Campus Progress works with youth-led community and campus groups on various issues, including the environment. Young people can join an Action Alliance with Campus Progress by applying for an organizing grant of up to $1,500 a year to help with websites, fliers or anything else they might need. Organizing grant applications are accepted year round.

FundingFactory is a free program where schools, non-profits, and charities earn points that can be redeemed for cash or products by recycling their empty printer cartridges, cell phones, laptops, and other small electronics.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation funds nonprofit organizations focusing on learning and science education, environmental and energy sustainability, community vitality and development, and public safety and human services. Eligible organizations must have a direct impact in a NiSource service area.

The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) and Dreyer’s Fruit Bars are planting orchards across the country in a collaborative program called “Communities Take Root,” and your town could be next! They invite your community to apply for this exciting opportunity to grow fresh fruit, beautify neighborhoods, strengthen relationships and build community food security—all through the simple act of planting fruit trees.

“Fruit Tree 101” is a program that creates outdoor edible orchard classrooms at public schools of all levels, across the country, to provide generations of students with environmental education opportunities and a source of organic fruit for improved school lunch nutrition.

The EarthEcho Water Planet Challenge Grants of $2,000 are available to middle and high school public educators to support service-learning programs that improve the health of the planet. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed three times per year.

The Simply Organic 1% fund supports and promotes the growth of organic and sustainable agriculture. One percent of sales on all Simply Organic spices, seasonings, flavors and mixes goes to support organic agriculture — through research, education and grower development.

The Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation supports grassroots organizations and movements in the U.S. working to change environmental, social, economic and political conditions to bring about a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

If your school has a Do Something Club that is working on social action projects in your community, you’re eligible to apply for a $250 Do Something Clubs Grant. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on the last day of every month.

Awesome Food, a chapter of the worldwide Awesome Foundation, is accepting grant applications to further food awesomeness in the universe. Applications are reviewed as they are received. One grant is awarded each month.

Need some funding for your crazy brilliant idea? The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler. Deadlines are rolling.

Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools is a grassroots public health effort to engage stakeholders at the local, state and national level to support salad bars in schools. The program’s goal is to fund and award 6,000 salad bars over the next three years. Any K-12 school district participating in the National School Lunch Program is eligible. Applications accepted throughout the year.

Pets in the Classroom is an educational grants program to help bring aquarium fish or small pets into PK-8th grade classrooms. You can obtain a grant or coupon for the purchase of new pets, pet environments or pet food and supplies for existing classroom pets. Applications accepted year-round.

The International Paper Foundation supports non-profit organizations in communities where its employees live and work. Environmental education is one of the primary areas the Foundation supports. An online application process routes applications to the appropriate local facility for consideration. Contact your local facility for submission deadlines.

Public school teachers who register their classroom at the Adopt-a-Classroom website can be adopted by an individual, business or foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology.

Get “seed” money for your school! Two different fundraising programs for schools from Renee’s Garden and the Seed Savers Exchange.

Mitsubishi Corporation Foundation for the Americas supports projects in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, environmental justice and environmental education. While proposals are accepted all year, ideal timing is during the first quarter of the calendar year.

Your school will receive credit for any type of ink or toner cartridges that are not visibly damaged. You may also receive credit for qualifying small electronics, such as cell phones and MP3 players.

The Cedar Tree Foundation makes grants in the following areas of concern: environmental education, environmental health and sustainable agriculture. Particular consideration is given to proposals demonstrating strong elements of environmental justice and/or conservation within the program areas listed above. Letters of inquiry accepted year-round.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private, family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, education, human services and other causes. Applications are open to any organization that meets the grant guidelines. Grants are awarded every June and December.

Through the Sip to Support a Garden program, schools and community gardens can earn year-round funding for their garden programs. Register your school or public community garden group with Jamba’s swipe card program and every time a supporter of your group uses the card at a participating Jamba Juice, your program gets 10% of the sales.

Eligible schools may apply for up to $4,000 to help increase awareness of and access to nutrient-rich foods and physical activity opportunities for students. The grants can be used for a variety of activities, tools, materials, student and staff incentives, staff development, and overall Fuel Up to Play 60 program implementation. Applications accepted four times per year.

Youth Venture inspires and invests in teams of young people to design and launch their own lasting social ventures, enabling them to have a transformative experience of leading positive social change. When the team is ready to launch, Youth Venture offers seed funding up to $1,000, guidance, tools and support, and a supportive network of fellow Youth Venturers.

These grants seek to strengthen the stewardship of public lands by strengthening Friends Groups through funding for organizational capacity building. Applications are accepted April 30 and October 30 every year.

These grants support health, including food security and improved nutrition; environment, including water security, sustainable agriculture, and adaptive approaches to climate change; and education, including access to education and training for the underserved and women’s empowerment. Requests up to $100,000 are accepted year-round.

Young people age 25 and under who are working to start a community action project or program are eligible to apply for a $500 Do Something Seed Grant. One winner is chosen every week. No deadline.

The Office Depot Foundation awards grants to support activities that serve, teach and inspire children, youth and families, and to support civic organizations and activities that serve community needs. Grants range from $50 to $3,000. Applications are reviewed year-round.

Hi eenorthcarolina.org users! It’s our privilege to provide this resource for you. Have you applied for, or even better, received a grant or contest that you learned about from this page? Please let us know about it. Just send a quick email to Marty.Wiggins@ncdenr.gov and let us know. This will help us better serve you!

The Verizon Foundation awards grants to K-12 schools to increase literacy and educational achievement levels. Proposals are considered from public and private elementary and secondary schools registered with the National Center for Education Statistics. Unsolicited proposals are reviewed on a continuous calendar year basis, from January 1 – October 14.

The ING Foundation awards grants of $2,500 to $100,000 and more to non-profit organizations. The Foundation focuses on financial literacy, children’s education, diversity and environmental sustainability. Grant requests are reviewed quarterly.

The MeadWestvaco Foundation seeks to provide leadership for advancing research, education and public dialogue on public policy issues of special interest, such as the economy, regulation and environmental stewardship. Proposals for grants are accepted throughout the year. Grants range from $250 to $10,000.

WaysToHelp.org invites teens in the U.S. to apply for grants to fund their community service ideas across any one of 16 issue areas, including the environment. Grant requests are reviewed and responded to on a monthly basis. Grants up to $500 are awarded.

The objective of the National Geographic Conservation Trust is to support conservation activities around the world as they fit within the mission of the National Geographic Society. The trust will fund projects that contribute significantly to the preservation and sustainable use of the Earth’s biological, cultural, and historical resources. While grant amounts vary greatly, most range from $15,000 to $20,000 each. Pre-applications accepted throughout the year, but should be submitted at least eight months prior to anticipated field dates.

Recognizing that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organizations, and corporate partners for momentum, Waste Management lends its support and services to programs related to environmental education, the environment and the community. Applications accepted year-round.

Orchards are donated where the harvest will best serve communities for generations, such as community gardens, public schools and parks, low-income neighborhoods, Native American reservations, international hunger relief sites, and animal sanctuaries. Fruit Tree 101 grants for public schools only. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.

The USDA has programs throughout its operations that can assist farmers, help consumers access nutritious foods, and support rural community development. This page lists several programs and grants to assist those involved in local food systems, food and nutrition-related community development and farm to school programs.

The Norcross Wildlife Foundation supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. working to protect wild land. Grants averaging $5,000 are provided primarily for program-related office and field equipment and public education and outreach materials. The Foundation also provides no-interest loans to acquire land prioritized for conservation. Applications may be submitted at any time.

The Wal-mart State Giving Program seeks to support organizations with programs that align with its mission to create opportunities so people can live better. The Foundation has four areas of focus: Education, Workforce Development / Economic Opportunity, Health & Wellness, and Environmental Sustainability. Minimum grants are $25,000. The submission deadlines are April 17 and September 18 each year.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc. and the Toyota USA Foundation support programs in education, environment and safety. Applicant organizations must be tax-exempt. Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The Annenberg Foundation focuses its grantmaking on education and youth development; arts, culture, and humanities; civic and community; animal services and the environment; and health and human services. Letters of inquiry that address these interests are accepted throughout the year.

Competitive grants are available to not-for-profit, grassroots organizations in the U.S. that facilitate progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems. Only proposals from grassroots, constituent-led organizations are considered. Letters of interest may be submitted at any time.

K-12 teachers who develop or apply science, math and technology may qualify for a grant of up to $250. Grants may be used for demonstration kits, science supplies, math and science software and other materials to help make science, math and technology come alive in the classroom. Grants will be considered in November, January and April.

GCA offers several research fellowships and scholarships for undergrads, grads and people already in the field. Topics include: ecological restoration, urban forestry, environmental studies, wetland studies, botany, desert studies and more.

Each business day, 4imprint gives a worthy organization $500 in promotional products to spread the word, recruit volunteers, thank donors, offer comfort to someone in need or in some other way turns one thing into something much more.

The ESMM Community Grants Program provides funding to local communities to implement strategies that advance the goals and objectives of Eat Smart, Move More…NC’s Plan.

Funding is awarded yearly, based on availability of funds. The RFA is generally released in May, with funding distributed to grant recipients in September.

Young people ages 18-25 are eligible to apply for grants to pursue research, exploration, and conservation-related projects consistent with National Geographic’s existing grant programs, including the Committee for Research and Exploration, the Expeditions Council, and the Conservation Trust. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Environmental Education Centers may be eligible for a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). (Federal Agencies and for-profit institutions are not elegible.) The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

The Fund for Wild Nature provides “small grants to small groups who get things done.” The fund provides money for campaigns (including development of citizen science endeavors) to save and restore native species, biological diversity and wild ecosystems. Most grants awarded in the past ranged from $1,000-$3,000.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has initiated a small grants program in North Carolina and Virginia as part of its strategic plan to identify and cultivate its constituency, to build value with the supporting public, to create community awareness of the Parkway as an economic and quality of life resource, and to assist the Blue Ridge Parkway with the accomplishment of its goals.

Grants in amounts up to $500 will be awarded upon successful application from private agencies, schools, arts councils, and other not-for-profit organizations whose programs and projects support the mission of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Campus Ecology program is helping transform the nation’s college campuses into living models of an ecologically sustainable society, while training a new generation of environmental leaders. The program awards fellowships to undergraduate and graduate students who desire to help reverse global warming on campus and beyond. The maximum grant request is $3,000.

Digital Wish offers over 50 different grants for digital camera hardware and software. To apply, register your classroom at Digital Wish and enter a lesson plan. All teachers who submit a lesson plan will be automatically entered to win a mobile digital camera lab, plus as many as 50 technology grants. Grants are awarded the 15th of every month.

Grants from Toshiba America Foundation fund projects, ideas and materials math and science teachers need to innovate in their classrooms, specifically projects designed by one teacher or a small team of teachers to use in their own school. Application deadlines are based on grant amount.

The Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation supports public education, community improvement projects and home safety initiatives in the communities it serves. Primary philanthropic areas are community improvement projects and public education (priority is given to K-12 public schools). Grants generally range from $5,000 to $25,000.

The American Honda Foundation awards grants up to $75,000 to youth education programs focused on STEM and the environment. Applications are accepted four times per year — February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.