Grant Redesign: Empowering Educators and Enhancing Opportunities

At the CU Schools Foundation, we believe in empowering educators to bring their ideas to life, enriching the learning experiences of students across Champaign and Urbana. For years, our grants have provided the resources teachers need to go beyond traditional funding constraints and deliver exceptional opportunities for their students.

But we know there’s always room to grow. Through valuable feedback from teachers and grant evaluators, we’ve identified two key changes that will make the grant process more accessible and impactful as part of the WE ARE THE SCHOOLS Strategic Plan.

Why Our Grants Matter

Teachers have shared how much these grants mean to them:

  • “The opportunity to support children with opportunities that might not otherwise be funded through my current position.”
  • “When I have ideas for projects, I don’t always want to spend out of pocket for materials.”
  • “There is simply not enough money to do all the things I wanted to do with my students. In order for them to have certain opportunities, funds are necessary.”

These testimonials remind us of the transformative power of providing educators with the tools to create, innovate, and inspire.

What’s New in 2025?

To make the grant program even more effective, we’re introducing two significant updates:

  1. Streamlined Application Process with New Software
    We’re implementing new grant management software to simplify the application and award process. Teachers will experience a more user-friendly platform that saves time and reduces stress, so they can focus on their students and their ideas.
  2. Second Annual Grant Cycle
    In response to teacher requests, we’re adding a second grant cycle during the second semester of the academic year. This change ensures more timely access to funds, helping teachers bring their visions to life when inspiration strikes mid-year. The second application period will be open January 21-31, 2025. TEACHERS APPLY HERE TODAY

The Impact

These changes are about more than just logistics—they’re about creating opportunities for students, elevating the teaching profession, and strengthening our community. With easier access to funding and more flexibility, teachers can:

  • Launch innovative projects.
  • Provide experiences that inspire curiosity and creativity.
  • Equip their classrooms with the tools students need to thrive.

By supporting teachers in this way, we’re investing in the future of Champaign and Urbana, one classroom at a time.

A Shared Vision

At CUSF, we’re thrilled to see how these updates will enhance our mission to invest in an equitable and empowered future for our schools and our community. Together, we’re not just supporting educators—we’re amplifying their impact on the next generation.

For more information on our grants or to apply, visit *CUSF Grants*. Let’s build a brighter future for our schools, one grant at a time!