DeKalb Schools Educational Foundation Microgrants Program

Yes. Educators may apply in multiple cycles, but the Foundation prioritizes applicants who have not previously received a grant in the current academic year when funds are limited. Prior recipients are encouraged to apply and must submit their report from any previous grant before a new application will be considered. A person may apply only once in each grant cycle - one grant application in the Fall, and a separate application in Spring, is acceptable.

Absolutely. Collaborative applications are welcome and encouraged. For a collaborative effort, submit one application and designate one primary applicant as the point of contact. Most grants are between $1500-2500, however some schoolwide projects may be eligible for additional funding up to $4999.

Applicants may submit a project with a total cost exceeding ​$5,000 if they can identify additional funding sources (e.g., school budget, another grant, classroom fundraising) to make up the difference. Please describe the full budget and all funding sources in your grant application.

No. Grant funds may not be used for personal stipends or compensation of any kind. Funds must be used for project-related materials, resources, or experiences that directly benefit students or educators.

Please notify the Foundation as soon as possible if your project scope or budget changes significantly. Minor adjustments (e.g., substituting one vendor for another) generally do not require pre-approval. Major changes — such as shifting the focus of the project or reallocating more than 20% of the budget — should be communicated in writing to the Foundation before proceeding.

Grant funds are disbursed following board approval and receipt of a signed grant agreement from the award recipient. In most cases, the Foundation distributes funds within 10 business days (about 2 weeks) after the notification date.

Any unspent funds should be returned to the Foundation and noted in your final report. Partial use of funds will not disqualify you from applying in future cycles.

Applications are evaluated by a volunteer review committee of Foundation Board members. The committee may reach out for clarifying information during the review period. Applications selected by the review committee are presented to the Foundation Board for approval and a funding decision.