Innovator Grants

Innovator Grants is sponsored by Innovation Technology Education Fund (ITEF). Supports innovative projects that integrate technology and STEM into education, including robotics programs, to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Innovative Technology Grant - Innovative Technology Education Fund Innovative Technology Grant Turn a bold technology idea into a real solution for your classroom or school. Here’s how to succeed: Submit your application between November 1, 2025 and January 31, 2026 What is the Innovator Grant? This annual grant opportunity empowers K–12 schools to use technology in new and creative ways to solve real-world problems.

Educators should apply if their classroom or school is ready to launch a new idea or expand an existing one to create meaningful changes that will impact student learning! ITEF funds projects that are innovative, and which elevate learning and exploration. Although we see “innovation” as a mindset, we understand that the definition of innovation is relative and dynamic.

We look for projects that engage students, push teachers, and generate excitement and enthusiasm for learning. Grants are generally one year in length Applicants should proceed with knowledge and support from their superintendent/head of school and their Information Technology department. Grant recipients are asked to demonstrate compliance through quarterly reports, mid-project visits, and final reports.

Applicants must have held their charter for three or more years. Project proposals may support single grade classrooms, multiple grade levels, entire schools, or collaborations with a 501c(3) non-profit partner serving students and/or classroom educators from an accredited school or a charter school. Grant applications are reviewed and selected by the ITEF Board of Directors and staff.

What is the Innovator Grant? This annual grant opportunity empowers K–12 schools to use technology in new and creative ways to solve real-world problems. Educators should apply if their classroom or school is ready to launch a new idea or expand an existing one to create meaningful changes that will impact student learning!

Review the Application & the Rubric The Application PDF and the Innovator Rubric is available all year – go ahead, download it, review it, and start the work early. Even better, bring your answers to a writing workshop. Be sure to review the past year’s projects.

Hint hint: We LOVE giving grants for big new ideas. We support real innovation which requires fresh, creative thinking. What challenge, possibility, or opportunity will change your practice and inspire your students?

That’s what we want to hear! Attend a Free Grant Writing Workshop Check out the current workshops available. We provide opportunities f or you to work with our staff and perfect your grant application.

Come with your ideas, better yet – come with your application! Eligible schools are those with a qualifying zip code in our service area. St.

Louis Public School (SLPS) educators, we invite you to explore grant opportunities through our friends at the St. Louis Education Fund . While ITEF cannot currently make direct grants to SLPS institutions, we look forward to supporting your work in other ways.

Missouri Zip Code Eligibility Illinois Zip Code Eligibility What’s Not Supported by ITEF Grants = Individual Scholarships = Annual Appeals, Endowments = Faith Based Organizations (unless supporting an accredited K-12 educational institution)