One of the greatest parts of my job is being able to work with schools on how they are using technology in all forms to transform traditional learning. I’ve seen projects that turn old computer labs into dynamic maker spaces and lecture-ready classrooms into interactive collaboration centers. These projects are designed to improve student outcomes and are a necessity as education environments evolve. Unfortunately, they also tend to become secondary or non-existent in an already tight school budget. That’s why I want to talk to schools about private foundation funding and how to start thinking outside more traditional funding programs.
Our latest webcast on grant funding for education took a deep dive into all types of foundation funding and the best practices for soliciting funding. Here are three different types of funding resources you should consider:
1. Think Local—Small and local businesses are a great place to start to quickly fund projects that don’t require a lot of time or resources. These businesses are an existing part of your community that have a vested interest in seeing your schools and students succeed.
2. Corporate Community—Do you have a larger corporation with a presence in your community? Many large corporations have existing foundations and delight in seeing local schools and organizations tapping into them through grant requests. Additionally, they gain marketing opportunities by showing how their local employees may be able to contribute to or volunteer for a project.
3. Existing Insiders—There are vendors you work with every day that are potential funding resources. These could be utility, insurance, or even banking vendors that may have their own funding programs or be open to solicitation. It is likely you have a good relationship with a representative from a vendor, and that could be a good place to start with your inquiry.
Now that you have a few potential businesses in mind and your project in hand, it’s time to talk to a Grants Consultant. Listen to our webcast Funding Educational Technology at Charter and Magnet Schools. If you have any lingering questions and would like to be connected with a Grants Consultant, contact us, and we’ll schedule that for you.