Staff Grant Application Portal

Apply for a Grant

Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 grant cycle

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant.

The online application portal is now open. You can save your work and return to it later, and upload supplemental attachments to your application.

Start Your Application

We encourage educators to begin thinking about potential project ideas now. Strong proposals clearly demonstrate how funding will create meaningful student impact, are feasible to implement, and align with our mission and areas of investment.

A person in academic attire interacting with a digital grant application checklist

Virtual Info Sessions

Learn about the grant process.

Join us for a virtual grant application info session. We'll walk through the application process, answer your questions, and help you prepare a strong proposal.

Wednesday, August 19

5:00 PM

Wednesday, September 16

3:30 PM

Join the session via Google Meet: meet.google.com/unf-imhj-jek. Questions can be directed to brenda@collsedfund.org.

Application Walkthrough

Watch a guided tour of the application.

This short walkthrough shows you exactly what to expect when you apply.

Before You Apply

Questions About Your Idea?

If you're unsure whether your project is a good fit, we welcome the opportunity to talk with you before applications open. We're happy to discuss:

  • Potential student impact
  • Project feasibility and implementation
  • Alignment with our mission and funding priorities
  • Ways to strengthen your proposal before submission

Please reach out — we'd be glad to help you think through your idea and determine whether it aligns with what we're looking to support.

Email Brenda

Contact

Brenda Borkoski

Director of Grants

brenda@collsedfund.org

Applications must be submitted by October 1, 2026. Visit the portal at apply.collsedfund.org.

Planning Ahead

Idea Development Guide: Is Your Project a Good Fit?

As you begin thinking about a grant proposal, use these questions to help shape your idea and determine whether it aligns with our areas of investment.

1.

What student need or opportunity are you addressing?

Start with the "why." What challenge, gap, or opportunity will your project address for students?

2.

How will students benefit?

Strong proposals clearly describe the impact on student learning, engagement, well-being, or access to new experiences.

3.

Does your idea fit one of our funding priorities?

  • STEM Initiatives – robotics, coding, makerspaces, lab equipment, and hands-on science experiences
  • Arts & Music – visual arts, music, theater, creative expression, and artist partnerships
  • Classroom & Grade-Level Initiatives – curriculum enhancements, classroom libraries, interdisciplinary learning, and grade-level projects
  • Social-Emotional Learning – programs and resources that support student wellness, belonging, resilience, and emotional growth
  • Afterschool & Enrichment – clubs, competitions, enrichment opportunities, and extended learning experiences
  • World Language & Innovation – language learning, global connections, instructional technology, and innovative teaching tools
  • Sports & Extracurricular Activities – equipment, uniforms, student clubs, and activities that foster teamwork, leadership, and school pride
4.

Will the project reach a meaningful number of students?

Impact can be broad or deep. Consider who will participate and how the experience will benefit them.

5.

Is the project feasible?

Think about timing, staffing, logistics, and implementation. Can the project realistically be completed during the proposed timeframe?

6.

Does the budget directly support student outcomes?

Every requested item should have a clear connection to the goals and impact of the project.

7.

Will students have hands-on, engaging experiences?

Projects that actively involve students often create the strongest and most lasting impact.

8.

Does the idea create opportunities that would not otherwise be available?

We are especially interested in projects that expand access to meaningful educational experiences.

9.

How will you know the project was successful?

Consider what evidence you can provide to demonstrate impact, such as participation, student work, engagement, or learning outcomes.

10.

Can you clearly explain the connection to our mission?

The strongest proposals make a compelling case for how funding will enhance the educational experience and help students learn, grow, and thrive.