Grants can be highly beneficial for outdoor oriented schools and programs, providing financial resources to support all different kinds of initiatives from curriculum development, outdoor space enhancement, teacher training, and supply purchases -- such as a bulk outerwear purchase to dress all students in the same, high functioning gear.
Nobody disputes that grants are a great solution for outdoor schools to use to bridge budget shortfalls, but the real question is how do you find them and then how do you make sure that your application is strong so that your program wins the grant? Outdoor School Shop is here to assist on both fronts! We have done a fair amount of research to track down some grants that speak to the needs of the outdoor schools we work with. The list at the bottom of this post is by no means exhaustive. Rather, it should be considered your jumping-off point. There are lots of grants out there – we just need to find them! Please share leads with our community when you find them! DM us on Instagram @outdoorschoolshop and we will make sure to get the information out there!
When searching for grants, consider using online grant databases and resources specific to education or environmental funding opportunities. Additionally, reach out to local community foundations, education associations, and environmental organizations to inquire about potential grant opportunities for elementary outdoor education.
The application to join the VELA Founder Network and apply for a Micro grant is live! Micro grants are competitive grants of $2,500 or $10,000 awarded to entrepreneurs operating learning environments that serve as alternatives to conventional school, and to programs utilized by founders and families in the alternative schooling ecosystem. VELA funding is exclusively reserved for founders enabling families to pursue alternatives to conventional schooling as their primary learning experience. Visit https://vela.org/apply/ to get all the details!
Remember to carefully review grant guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines to increase your chances of securing funding for your outdoor education program.
ABCs of Securing a Grant for your Outdoor Program
Organizations Providing Grants to Nature & Outdoor Schools
