How to Get Grants for Your Microschool

Written by Iman Alleyne; Founder and CEO of Kind Academy; an award-winning network of personalized and project-based microschools for future leaders. Since 2013, my journey has been dedicated to reshaping education. 

How Nonprofit Funding Works: A Guide for Microschools

One question I get the most while helping others start microschools is how to access funding. As a part of our Money and Micorschools series, today we will cover getting grants as a nonprofit microschool.

Starting a nonprofit microschool is an exciting journey, but understanding how funding works is key to sustaining your vision. Nonprofit funding isn't just about money—it's about aligning with your mission, staying transparent, and building a strong community around your school. Let’s dive into how it works before we get to a curated list of grants you can apply for today.

1. Understanding Nonprofit Funding

501(c)(3) Status

To qualify for most grants and tax-deductible donations, your organization must apply for 501(c)(3) status with the IRS. This designation confirms your nonprofit serves a public good, such as providing innovative education.

• Why It Matters: Grants are typically only available to registered nonprofits, and this status helps your donors claim tax deductions.

• How to Get Started: File Form 1023 with the IRS and draft clear organizational documents like a mission statement, bylaws, and a budget.

Diverse Revenue Streams

Nonprofit funding comes from several sources:

• Grants: Project-specific funding from foundations and government agencies.

• Donations: Contributions from individuals, corporations, or local organizations.

• Events and Campaigns: Fundraisers, galas, and community events.

• Earned Income: Tuition fees, if applicable, or selling branded merchandise.

  
  

Transparency and Accountability

Funders and donors want to know their money is making an impact. Here's how to maintain trust:

• Publish an annual report detailing how funds are used.

• Use tools like QuickBooks or donor management software to track income and expenses.

• Report back to funders regularly if they require updates on grant progress.

  
  

The Founder’s Clause

Consider adding a Founder’s Clause in your bylaws to keep your nonprofit true to your vision. This clause ensures your mission remains intact even if leadership changes. It might include:

• A requirement to uphold the founding vision.

• Clear guidelines on mission-related decision-making.

  
  

2. Grant Opportunities for Microschools and Nonprofit Education Spaces

Here are some funding sources to consider:

1. VELA Education Fund Offers microgrants to support innovative, community-based educational programs. Apply here

   
   

   

   This was the first grant we received, and it was such a boon to our program at Kind Academy.

   
   

2. NewSchools Venture Fund Focuses on funding innovative education entrepreneurs and organizations. Learn more

3. Walton Family Foundation Supports initiatives that expand access to high-quality educational choices. Explore opportunities

4. Stand Together Trust offers grants to support the incubation and launch of microschools, providing funding and strategic capabilities to innovators and social entrepreneurs. Stand Together's website.

5. Getting Smart's 'A Big Push for Small Schools' Grants Provides grants to fast-track the influence and scalability of select microschool models. Details here

6. Yass Prize Awards funding to both nonprofit and for-profit education innovators. Apply now.

   
   

   

   The Yass Prize helped us to scale our network, which now has 40 schools that utilize our philosophy and framework.

   
   

7. Snapdragon Book Foundation Grants aimed at improving school libraries for disadvantaged children. Application information

8. Saxena Family Foundation Provides grants for programs focusing on STEM education for girls. Learn more

9. Kars4Kids Small Grant Program Supports educational initiatives benefiting America's children. Apply here

10. Grant Gopher is a database of grants for education, schools, and teachers in Florida. Find grants

11. GrantStation Offers a comprehensive database of grant opportunities for nonprofits. Explore now

12. Foundation Directory Online: A resource to find potential funders for your nonprofit. Access here

13. GrantWatch Lists grants available for nonprofits, including those in education. Browse grants

14. Grants.gov is a portal for federal grant opportunities across various sectors. Search grants

15. Impact Fund provides grants to nonprofits focusing on social justice, including education. Learn more

16. The Awesome Foundation Offers microgrants for projects that promote education and innovation. Apply here

    
    

    

    A grant from Getting Smart supported our Robotics Program this year.

    
    

3. Navigating Nonprofit Funding

Embarking on the nonprofit route involves understanding how to leverage funding while staying true to your mission. Here's how it works:

• Establishing Nonprofit Status: Register your organization as a 501(c)(3) to become eligible for various grants and tax-exempt status.

• Grant Applications: Apply for grants that align with your mission. Each grant has specific requirements, so tailor your proposals accordingly.

• Fund Utilization: Use the funds as specified in your grant proposal. Transparency and accountability are key to maintaining trust with funders.

• Sustaining Your Vision: To prevent mission drift, consider implementing a Founder's Clause in your bylaws. This clause ensures the core mission remains intact, even as leadership changes. However, be cautious: while it protects your vision, it shouldn't make it impossible to adapt or bring in new leadership when necessary.

  
  

4. Leveraging AI for Grant Writing

AI can be your co-pilot in the grant-writing process in this digital age. Here are some AI-powered tools to consider:

• Grantable: An AI platform designed to streamline grant writing, helping you draft proposals efficiently. Discover Grantable

• Grantboost Speeds up the grant writing process with AI, allowing you to focus on your mission. Try Grantboost

• Easy-Peasy.AI's Grant Proposal GeneratorAssists in creating compelling grant proposals with AI-driven suggestions. Explore Easy-Peasy.AI

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts

Launching a nonprofit microschool is rewarding and challenging, but understanding nonprofit funding and leveraging grants can make all the difference. Start with these grant opportunities, stay true to your vision, and watch your school grow into a sustainable, impactful space for students.

Have questions or need help applying for these grants? Let’s chat in the comments—your dream is worth it! 💛