Educators whose curriculum ideas illustrate effective and creative use of digital cameras and software resources are invited to apply. Proposals should involve the teacher's entire class via a group project or should allow each student to have the opportunity to build their own project.

Sally Ride Science, Smith College, Hasbro Inc., Southwest Airlines, Sony Corp., and Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society, are giving students in grades five through eight the chance to step out of their classrooms and broaden their engineering, science, and design skills by creating their dream toy for the TOYchallenge program. The mission of this fun-fueled toy and game design competition is to motivate kids, especially girls, to pursue science, engineering, and education careers. TOYchallenge 2006 will launch on September 12. To participate, design teams must find an adult coach (18 years of age or older) and sign up (the fee is $25 per team); choose from themed-toy categories such as "Games for the Family," "Get out and Play," and "Toys that Teach"; and create and submit their preliminary-round entry, which consists of a written description and visual presentation of their original toy or game concept. National showcases and a final judging and awards ceremony will follow. Both boys and girls in grades five through eight may participate, but at least half of the members of each team must be girls. All submissions will be judged on originality, creativity, engineering elegance, feasibility, design process description, team participation, and clarity of communication. (Note: Sign-up period ends Dec. 31; preliminary entries are due in early January.)

Edulink Inc., a provider of customized web-based technology solutions for school systems has launched its "Educational Grants" program. This program is designed to provide grants for school districts, colleges and universities, and other educational agencies to receive access to EduLink's web-based technology solutions. EduLink will provide up to $30,000 worth of subscriptions to its Act 48 credit keeper web-based data-management system that tracks and submits Act 48 hours and credits directly to the Pennsylvania Dept. of Education Records Management System. Eligible entities that are selected to receive the grant will be provided with free access to the Act 48 credit keeper system. The amount and timeline of each grant will vary according to the recipient's circumstances but will be no less than one full year of free access to the system and will range in value from $1,000 to $5,000.

Through the LeapFrog PASS Program, LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. will provide up to $30 million in LeapFrog SchoolHouse classroom products to accredited preK-8 public and private schools across the nation. The LeapFrog PASS Program provides a matching gift of $500 per school toward the purchase of LeapFrog SchoolHouse products. The LeapFrog PASS program will award matching gifts until Dec. 31, 2005 or until the $30 million in gift supplies are exhausted.

eInstruction Corp. has announced its second annual Engaging Kids to Learn Grant program that awards 36 Classroom Performance Systems (CPS) to educators worldwide. The award will consist of one CPS that includes 32 interactive wireless response pads for students, CPS Chalkboard software, and content containing thousands of CPS questions from Prentice Hall and Scott Foresman to supplement the subject area of the winner's expertise. Any educator may apply, whether already a CPS user or just learning about the system. Throughout the year, applications will be assessed and awards will be given on the basis of need, innovation, enthusiasm, thoughtfulness, and methodology. Educators who applied in 2004 can apply again for this year's awards. Each quarter, eInstruction will choose up to nine applicants for the Engaging Kids Grant: three from elementary schools, three from middle schools, and three from high schools. Applicants should apply only once per year--not every month or quarter.

InfoSource Inc., the developer and distributor of the "How to Master" line of technology-related education products, is accepting applications for its new grant program. The InfoSource Integrating Technology in the Classroom Grant Program will award up to $2.5 million in online tools and training to school districts. The grant is meant to support "in need" school districts across the nation by providing the tools and technology needed to improve digital literacy skills for both teachers and students, simplify and enhance the learning process, and make computers and the internet an integral part of the classroom. The grants will provide qualified K-12 school districts with the "How to Master: Learn It! Build It! Share It!" suite of online tools and technology training. The tools and training support both the National Education Technology Plan and the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. Awardees will receive financial assistance for a one-year product license for faculty, staff, and/or student use in their school district. Applicants must apply online and include a short one-to-two page summary detailing how the district plans to integrate technology in the classroom utilizing InfoSource's How to Master: Learn It! Build It! Share It! suite of online tools and technology training. In the first year, InfoSource plans to award more than 100 grants, ranging from $1,000 to $75,000 in product value. School districts are encouraged to apply early, since applications will be reviewed and awarded monthly until the grant pool has been exhausted. Submissions will be accepted through December 31, 2005. All grants will be awarded by the end of January 2006. (Note: Be sure to click on the "Grant Program" link when accessing this site online.)

Through its 2005 Sony Virtuoso Education Grant Program, SANS Inc. will give away a Sony Virtuoso Digital Language Lab ($50,000 value) to an eligible public or private school. The applicant who most clearly and creatively explains how selected features or functions of the Sony Digital Language Learning System will have a significant positive impact on its language programs will receive the grant.

MTV and Youth Venture are teaming up to offer up to $1,000 each week to young people who are making a difference by creating and leading their own ongoing organizations, clubs, or businesses that address a need in their community. Think Ventures must focus on one of the following issue areas: discrimination, education, environment, global issues, or sexual health.

The purpose of the InfoSource Integrating Technology in the Classroom Grant Program is to provide qualified "in need" school districts with the InfoSource Learn It! Build It! Share It! suite of online tools and technology training. Learn It! Build It! Share It! gives districts the opportunity to improve digital literacy skills for both teachers and students, use technology tools to improve and simplify the teaching process, and make technology an integral part of the classroom. With dial-up or broadband internet access, teachers and students can access online computer and internet skills training, testing, assignments, grade books, reporting, chat rooms, discussion boards, file sharing, a lesson plan builder, and a lesson plan library.

The mission of the Captain Planet Foundation (CPF) is to fund and support hands-on environmental projects for children. The foundation encourages innovative programs that empower children and youth around the world to work individually and collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods and communities. Through environmental education, CPF believes children can achieve a better understanding and appreciation for the world in which they live.

ITEA Elementary Grants are intended to advance quality in technology education at the elementary school level. Seven project grants of $1,000 each will be awarded to schools showing a need for funding to create or advance technology activities in their schools. Priority will be given to applicants who best exhibit the criteria outlined on the program's web site and who utilize their finding for the maximum number of students.

The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Talent Expansion Program (STEP) seeks to increase the number of students (U.S. citizens or permanent residents) receiving associate or baccalaureate degrees in established or emerging fields within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Type 1 proposals are solicited that provide for full implementation efforts at academic institutions. Type 2 proposals are solicited that support educational research projects on associate or baccalaureate degree attainment in STEM.

The Intel and Scholastic Schools of Distinction Awards annually recognize U.S. K-12 schools that demonstrate excellence in implementing innovative, replicable programs supporting positive educational outcomes. The awards showcase the effective use of technology, the benefits of strong teamwork, and the development of excellent classroom teachers. Winners, one each in elementary and secondary education, will be chosen in nine categories.

Teaching American History grants support projects to raise student achievement by improving teachers' knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of traditional American history. Grant awards assist local educational agencies, in partnership with entities that have extensive content expertise, to develop, document, evaluate, and disseminate innovative, cohesive models of professional development. By helping teachers to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of traditional American history as a separate subject within the core curriculum, these programs improve instruction and raise student achievement.

Blackboard Greenhouse Awards strive to cultivate innovations in eLearning, support the organic growth of knowledge within the Blackboard community, and recognize exemplary campus service programs. The Greenhouse program features three distinct award categories for which Blackboard clients are encouraged to submit entries: exemplary courses, exemplary campus service, and exemplary community of practice initiatives.

The Talent Search Program identifies qualified youths with potential for education at the postsecondary level and encourages them to complete secondary school and undertake a program of postsecondary education. Talent Search projects also publicize the availability of student financial assistance for persons who seek to pursue postsecondary education and encourage persons who have not completed programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to reenter these programs.

Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowships allow elementary and secondary math and science teachers to spend a year in Washington, D.C. Selected teachers spend up to a year in a Congressional office, the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics & Space Administration, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Education, or the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy. Recipients get a monthly stipend, plus moving expenses to and from Washington. Full-time teachers in elementary or secondary schools who spend at least three-quarters of their classroom contact hours teaching math, science, or technology are eligible. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen and have a minimum of five years' full-time classroom experience. This is not a job; it is a fellowship intended to support the intellectual and professional development of teachers who have a sincere desire to contribute their expertise of and be involved in the advancement of science, mathematics, and technology education.

These grants are for youth (ages 5-14), teachers, or the organizations that engage them, to implement service projects on National and Global Youth Service Day, April 21-23, 2006. Applicants will be expected to develop a service plan that responds to a need in their community. Projects should be age-appropriate and address the concerns, skills, and level of understanding of the youth. The grant program encourages projects where children and youth work together with adults, but projects should be youth-led.

This grant supports classroom teachers who undertake research about literacy and instruction. Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded, although priority will be given to smaller grants (e.g., $1,000 to $2,000) to provide support for as many teacher researchers as possible.

The foundation considers the following types of grants: teacher excellence programs that improve teacher quality; service learning programs that integrate core classroom curriculum with service to the community; and programs that incorporate the Baldrige criteria into education systems to improve overall effectiveness.

One-year grants provide seed money for new projects. Topic areas are unrestricted, but should include a clearly defined activity that promotes education and equity for women and girls. Two-year grants provide start-up funds for longer-term programs that address the particular needs of the community and develop girls' sense of efficacy through leadership or advocacy opportunities. Topic areas are unrestricted, but should include a clearly defined activity that promotes education and equity for women and girls. Grant projects must have direct public impact, be nonpartisan, and take place within the United States or its territories.

The We the People Bookshelf program encourages young people to read and understand great literature while exploring themes in American history. One thousand libraries will be selected to receive the books, which focus on becoming American.

The awards will focus on three areas. The Environmental Science Education category funds projects that emphasize the efficient use of natural resources and protection of the environment. The Physical Science Applications category includes projects that relate the laws, principles, and concepts of science (physics and chemistry) to phenomena and events relevant to students' lives. Unique ways of applying science to technology and making physical science more accessible to students are encouraged. The Literacy and Science Education category will focus on the development of literacy skills in the context of science teaching and learning.

Applicants must submit a written proposal explaining how the summer fellowship will make them a better teacher and how the applicant's improved skills or capacity will be implemented in the classroom, benefiting students, curricula, and school. In addition, applicants should supply information as to how they will document experiences and describe in narrative form their proposed fellowship budget.

This award is designed to recognize K-12 educators who have made extraordinary science-teaching contributions and who have had a significant impact on the lives of their students.

To support educators with their ongoing professional development and to champion the integration of visual learning into the curriculum, Inspiration Software is offering its eighth annual Inspired Teacher Scholarships for Visual Learning. Inspiration Software is committed to helping educators use graphic organizers and other visual learning tools to help students develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. For 2006, the company is offering two types of scholarships: 25 Inspired Teacher Scholarships for Visual Learning, or $750 scholarships to educators who demonstrate an understanding of visual learning and a commitment to the integration of visual learning techniques into the curriculum; and five Inspired Teacher Scholarship Rookie Awards for Visual Learning, or $750 scholarships to educators just starting out in the area of visual learning, but ready to learn more. To be eligible for a Rookie Award, candidates must be new to visual learning and demonstrate a desire and capacity to learn and apply visual learning principles in the classroom.

Calling all inspired teachers! To support educators with their ongoing professional development and to champion the integration of visual learning into the curriculum, Inspiration Software is pleased to offer the eighth annual Inspired Teacher Scholarships for Visual Learning. Inspiration Software is committed to helping educators use graphic organizers and other visual learning tools to help students develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Research has shown that visual learning is one of the best methods for teaching thinking skills. Visual learning techniques--graphical ways of working with ideas and presenting information--teach students to think clearly and to process, organize, and prioritize new information. Inspired Teacher Scholarships for Visual Learning must be used to defray costs incurred by scholarship winners to attend workshops, conferences, or graduate courses that focus on visual learning and technology in education.

The Council for Corporate and School Partnerships, established in March 2001, serves as a forum for the exchange of information, expertise, and ideas to ensure that partnerships between businesses and schools achieve their full potential for meeting key educational objectives. The council works with educators and businesses to identify, create, recognize, and support exemplary school-business partnerships that improve the student experience for all K-12 students in the United States.

The Coming Up Taller Awards recognize and support outstanding community arts and humanities programs that celebrate the creativity of America's young people, giving them learning opportunities and chances to contribute to their communities. These awards focus national attention on exemplary programs that are fostering the creative and intellectual development of America's children and youth through education and practical experience in the arts and the humanities. Accompanied by a cash award, the Coming Up Taller Awards not only reward these projects with recognition but also contribute support to their continued work.

Grants will be awarded to teachers and library media specialists through a competitive application process. The program challenges teachers and librarians to explore technology-related products and services and creatively apply these tools and resources in the classroom to enrich student learning. Grants must be used to pay for technology products, training, and services not provided to the teacher by the school or the school district. Examples include, but are not limited to, computer software and hardware, digital cameras, CD-ROM libraries, scanners, video boards, modems, internet access, wiring, and online access to networks and databases.

Curriculum Associates Inc. supports efforts by teachers, education support staff, and school or district administrators to improve student learning in the nation's public schools and nonprofit organizations by making matching grants to preK-12 educators who demonstrate an innovative approach to teaching with Curriculum Associates' research-based instructional and assessment materials. Grant applications are accepted four times per year.

Schools from across the country are eligible to apply online for an opportunity to partner with NASA in a program designed to bring engaging mathematics, science, and technology learning to educators, students, and families. Each spring, a three-year partnership is established between NASA and 50 new NASA Explorer School teams, consisting of teachers and education administrators from diverse communities across the country. NASA invites the selected teams to work with education specialists from NASA Centers in an effort to spark innovative science and mathematics instruction for students in grades 4-9. While partnered with NASA, NASA Explorer School teams will acquire new teaching resources and technology tools using NASA's unique content, experts, and other resourcesto provide exciting learning experiences science, mathematics, and technology for students.

The Leaders in Learning Awards program recognizes administrators, educators, community leaders, and policy makers who demonstrate vision, innovation, action, and transformation in education. The objective of the awards is to promote and encourage innovative learning practices by honoring individuals who have transformed an aspect of education on a large or small scale. Winners will receive a $3,000 grant and an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Washington, D.C., where they will participate in a gala celebration and other activities.

The foundation's grants provide opportunities for teachers, education support professionals, and higher-education faculty and staff to engage in high-quality professional development and lead their colleagues in professional growth. Grants also fund project-based learning and break-the-mold innovations that significantly improve achievement for underserved students. Grants support public school teachers, public education support professionals, and/or faculty and staff in public institutions of higher education for learning and leadership or innovation.

This award recognizes outstanding contributions made by technology personnel or classroom teachers to technology education, and it rewards excellence in the development and delivery of school technology programs. Excellence may be demonstrated in the classroom directly with students or through the professional development of teachers in the recipient's school or district. The award winner seeks excellence, quality, and innovation in the development and application of technology. The award is open to all K-12 school- or district-level educators from across the nation and will be presented by AMF, the Space Foundation, and NASA at the 22nd National Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, Colo., in April 2006. The winner will be flown to Colorado Springs, where hotel accommodations will be provided. The winner also will receive a state-of-the-art personal digital assistant and a commemorative trophy with his or her name engraved. School principals must nominate candidates from their schools. An associate superintendent or superintendent must nominate all district-level personnel.

NEA Fine Arts Grants are awarded to teachers, through local NEA affiliates, to enable them to create and implement fine-arts programs that promote learning among students at risk of school failure.

The General Mills Champions Youth Nutrition and Fitness grant program encourages communities in the United States to improve the eating and physical activity patterns of young people ages 2-20. Grants will be awarded to nonprofit organizations and agencies working with communities that demonstrate the greatest need and likelihood of sustainable impact on young people's nutrition and activity levels through innovative programs.

Today's middle school students are the Innovation Generation-everyday kids with untapped potential who are creative problem-solvers. Unlocking that potential is the mission of the Christopher Columbus Awards program, a cutting-edge national competition that combines science and technology with community problem-solving in a real-world setting. With the help of an adult coach, students work in teams to identify an issue they care about and use science and technology to develop an innovative solution. They work with experts, conduct research, and put their ideas to the test, just like adult scientists. This is science and community involvement at its best, with real rewards.

The Raytheon Co. launched its MathMovesU program to reward real-life "Math Heroes" for their dedication to improving math education and their inspiration of participation in math. Middle and high school students, college and graduate students, and full-time middle or high school teachers currently teaching a mathematics curriculum in the United States are eligible for these awards.

The annual Giant Step Award recognizes outstanding school and public libraries that have made significant improvement or created new initiatives in programs and services that greatly impact student learning and development, or enrich services both in the school and in the community. The grant looks for programs that, over the past three years, have made a real difference in their institution.

CiviConnections is a three-year teacher grant program funded by the federal Corporation for National and Community Service and National Council for the Social Studies. Students and teachers choose a current issue of concern or need in the local community, investigate the issue through their community's history, and compare their local findings with what they have learned about the selected issue in our nation's history. Students look at how the issue is impacted by one or more government documents, such as the Bill of Rights, and then design and conduct high-quality service-learning activities to work on the issue and strengthen their community. In addition, students will create a public display to educate the community and celebrate their collaborative service projects. Teachers will develop and adapt these activities based on their students' interests and abilities, the needs or problems in the local community, and their local social studies curriculum requirements. A team of three teachers can apply for a $7,500 grant to cover their costs for attending a summer workshop, implementing the program during the fall of 2006, and attending the 2006 NCSS Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.

The Earthwatch Institute offers educators fully funded fellowships for what it calls "the ultimate hands-on learning experience." Participants can join leading scientists doing field research and conservation on one of 130 projects around the world. Research might include tracking peccaries in Brazil's enormous Pantanal wetland, following manatees aboard a small motorboat off the coast of Belize, or digging up ancient relics in sunny Spain.

Launched in partnership with PTO Today, a leading organization serving parent-teacher groups, Toolbox for Education will provide grants of up to $5,000 for public school improvement projects initiated by parents.

MTV and Youth Venture are offering Hope Venture Grants of up to $1,000 to support young people who want to launch a venture--an organization, club, or business--that will aid those affected by Hurricane Katrina. First priority will be given to proposals that support the creation of sustainable ventures that aid the citizens and communities who have lost so much from this disaster. A second priority will be proposals to start organizations solely for the purpose of raising and distributing funds for those in need. Hope Venture Grants will be offered every week for the next six months to groups of two or more young people (ages 13-20) with the most compelling venture ideas to assist the people and communities affected. Applications for one-time projects will not be considered.

The ThinkQuest competition, sponsored by the Oracle Foundation, promotes multicultural collaboration and learning by encouraging students to develop creative web sites focused on topic categories. Students work in teams to build creative and educational web sites that explore globally relevant subjects. Diverse teams made up of members from more than one school, community, or country are encouraged. Students between the ages of 9 and 19 are invited to form teams of three to six students, supervised by a teacher-coach. Teams will have approximately seven months to work on their web sites, focusing on their chosen topic area. Contest winners will receive prizes from the Oracle Foundation, including travel to the annual ThinkQuest Live event. In addition, national winners may be honored and awarded prizes by national partners of the foundation. Web sites must be entered by March 22, 2006. Coaches can enroll their teams now, and the official competition begins on or after August 15.

With an emphasis on two-year colleges, the Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program focuses on educating technicians for the high-technology fields that drive our nation's economy. The program involves partnerships between academic institutions and employers to promote improvement in the education of science and engineering technicians at the undergraduate and secondary-school levels. The ATE program supports curriculum development; professional development of college faculty and secondary-school teachers; career pathways to two-year colleges from secondary schools and from two-year colleges to four-year institutions; and other activities. A secondary goal is articulation between two-year and four-year programs for K-12 prospective teachers that focus on technological education. Additionally, the program invites proposals focusing on applied research relating to technician education.

RM Educational Software Inc. will give schools a 50 percent reduction off RM Easiteach software upon the initial purchase of RM Easiteach Studio, as well as a host of other benefits--including a monthly "RM Easiteach Tips and Tricks" newsletter. Educators will need to complete a short submission on how their school plans to transform teaching and learning using the RM Easiteach software.

ING started the Unsung Heroes awards program in 1995 as a reflection of its commitment to the educational community. The awards are given to K-12 educators pioneering in new methods and techniques that improve student learning. Educators submit applications describing projects they have initiated or would like to create. Their applications are judged on their innovative teaching methods, creative educational projects, and ability to make a positive influence on the children they teach.

iScience will loan teachers a free HOBO data logger kit for two months. The logger kit will include instructions on setting up the data logger and ideas on where teachers can monitor energy usage in their schoolsmeasuring temperature, relative humidity, light usage, and more. Teachers submit their class results online after they are finished. Every teacher who uses a HOBO data logger with his or her students to investigate energy waste and submits the results will get to keep their data logger free of charge (a $200 value) and will be eligible for one of three grand-prize awards: an 8-piece HOBO classroom logger set.

LearningStation Inc., a provider of customized web-based desktops for teaching and learning, has initiated a grant program entitled "I Will LEARN Today!" Through this program, LearningStation will provide grants for schools to receive access to the company's Education Desktop. The Education Desktop gives students and teachers access to a comprehensive suite of instructional programs, software content, and professional development programs of their school's choice; schools can choose from more than 12,000 programs from 75 content publishers. This desktop portal also gives administrators tools to track and report on program use, features password-protected access to all content titles, and includes features for file storage, eMail, and many other functions. LearningStation will provide $500,000 worth of subscriptions to this web service to K-12 schools or districts chosen to receive the grant. The number of LearningStation subscriptions grant recipients will get varies according to their circumstances.

The International Academy of Science developed the Acellus Matching Program to help qualified schools purchase Acellus Learning Systems so they can raise students' math scores. The Acellus Learning System is a video-based interactive education tool that is helping students master Mathematics. Approved schools will be required to cover the remaining cost of the software. The eligible software programs and their full prices are listed on the grant application.

Adobe Systems Inc. supports K-12 schools and nonprofits by donating up to four packages of its latest software. Eligible organizations have a core mission that focus on at least one of the following: improving K-12 student performance; developing curriculum for K-12 classrooms; developing and providing K-12 teacher training and development; and working to prevent hunger and homelessness. The program is managed by Gifts In Kind International. Requests are reviewed every other month based on the primary services the organization provides. Organizations may only apply once in a 12-month period.

Teachers who register at the Adopt-a-Classroom web site can be adopted by an individual, a business, or a foundation. Once adopted, teachers will receive $500 worth of credit to purchase items that enrich the learning environment, including classroom technology. Teachers help solicit their own sponsors by downloading and distributing fliers within their community or by sending out a personalized, pre-written eMail from the Adopt-a-Classroom web site. Every donor receives information about the classroom it has adopted, including an itemized list of what teachers bought so donors can see the impact of their donation.

Through its Advancing Student Achievement program, the Actuarial Foundation awards monetary grants to schools and nonprofit groups throughout the United States and Canada. The basic requirement for schools or groups seeking funding is that they develop a viable mentoring program involving actuaries in the teaching of mathematics to children in private or public schools. The program brings together actuaries and educators in local classroom environments with the belief that interaction with real-world mentors will boost students' interest and achievement in math. The Actuarial Foundation provides a local network of actuaries ready to participate, as well as suggestions on how to integrate math concepts from the workplace into the classroom. Groups applying for grants will be given wide latitude in designing programs that enhance learning and create a "love of math" in each student.

The Allstate Foundation makes grants to nonprofit organizations, including public K-12 schools, for projects that are related to automobile and highway safety, homes and neighborhoods, and personal safety and security. Under the personal safety and security initiative, programs that raise awareness of poverty, child abuse, drugs, and violence prevention are eligible for consideration. Applicants should offer safeguards against gangs, guns, sexual harassment, and domestic violence. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. There are no deadlines.

AMD's K-12 initiatives target programs that increase student interest and/or proficiency in literacy, math, science, and computer technology. Because great teachers are the key to successful learning, AMD also funds programs aimed at developing and supporting effective classroom instruction. Applications are due twice a year: May 1 and Dec. 1. Funding decisions are communicated no later than six months following the application deadline.

The American Express Foundation makes grants under three program themes that reflect its funding priorities: Community Service, Cultural Heritage, and Economic Independence. The third category, Economic Independence, supports initiatives that encourage, develop, and sustain economic self-reliance through programs that: Serve youth, emphasize school-to-work efforts, and work experiences; Build awareness about career and employment options for individuals facing significant barriers to employment; and provide education, training and workplace experiences so they may actively pursue these options. The American Express Foundation also targets its grants in cities where American Express has significant business and/or employee presence.

The American Honda Foundation makes grants of $10,000 to $100,000 to K-12 schools, colleges, universities, trade schools, and other youth-focused nonprofit organizations for programs that benefit youth and scientific education. The foundation is seeking programs that meet the following characteristics: imaginative, scientific, creative, humanistic, youthful, innovative, and forward-thinking. Grant applications are accepted four times per year: Nov. 1, Feb. 1, May 1, and Aug. 1.

The AOL Time Warner Foundation supports technology-related projects in four major areas of priority: Equipping Kids for the 21st Century, Extending Internet Benefits to All, Engaging Communities in the Arts, and Empowering Citizens and Civic Participation. Rather than simply providing grant monies, the foundation prefers to enter into sustainable, strategic partnerships with organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to pioneering innovative ways of meeting these priorities. As a general rule, the foundation does not fund unsolicited proposals except in very special circumstances. Proposals are reviewed throughout the year, and the foundation responds to requests within 8 to 12 weeks.

The Home Depot Foundation gives cash and materials to help provide young people with safe places to play and learn, leadership programs that teach skills through community engagement, and job readiness training. The Home Depot Foundation focuses its support on programs that serve at-risk youth ages 12 to 18. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000. The foundation gives first priority to organizations that have been invited to apply for a grant. However, the foundation also will consider unsolicited requests that match its eligibility requirements. The foundation will consider only one proposal from the same organization in a 12-month period. Applications are reviewed four times per year and are to be submitted online.

The AT&T Foundation awards grants to education projects that focus on improving the quality of teaching and learning through the effective use of technology; developing workforce skills for the information technology industry; and advancing diversity in education and the workplace, especially in the fields of science, math, engineering, and technology. Accredited public and private elementary and secondary schools, accredited public and private two- and four-year institutions of higher education, and educational nonprofit organizations are eligible for consideration. AT&T funds are typically distributed through invitational programs or through projects that it proactively develops with nonprofit organizations. Unsolicited applications are reviewed, but rarely are supported. Those who wish to submit an unsolicited proposal should send a brief letter of introduction and description of their organization and project to: Secretary, AT&T Foundation, 32 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10013.

Education is one of the Boeing Co.'s four areas of support. The largest single block of company contributions goes to education, including K-12 and college and university programs across the nation and in the countries where Boeing has operations. Boeing is a major supporter of systemic reform in public education. The company works in partnership with public school districts located near major Boeing facilities and encourages employees to become active volunteers engaged in sharing their knowledge and skills with K-12 students.

The Libri Foundation is a nationwide nonprofit organization that donates new, high-quality, hardcover children's books to small, rural public libraries in the United States through its Books for Children program. The books donated through the Books for Children program are used for storytelling; toddler, preschool, and after-school programs; summer reading programs; "book buddy" programs, in which older children read to younger children; holiday programs; teacher check-out and curriculum support; early childhood development programs; school projects; and to just provide children with a "good read." Applicants' Friends of Library programs or other local initiatives are expected to contribute up to $350 toward the project, which the Libri Foundation will match on a 2-to-1 ratio. The foundation awards grants three times a year. The application deadlines are March 15, July 15, and Dec. 15.

The Box Tops for Education program offers three ways for schools to earn cash through everyday activities such as buying groceries, shopping online, and making purchases with a credit card. When parents and community members clip box tops from General Mills products, schools can get 10 cents per box top. Schools also can earn up to 10 percent of each qualifying purchase made online at the Box Tops Marketplace. Box Tops also offers a Visa card that returns 1 percent of each purchase back to your school. Each program can generate up to $20,000 per year per school, for a maximum of $60,000 per year. Each participating school must designate a school coordinator to be enrolled in the program. Check the Box Tops for Education web site for more details.

Since 2002, Premier Assistive Technology Inc. has been offering its full suite of Accessibility software products to educational and nonprofit organizations through its Breaking Down Barriers to Assistive Technology grant program, which has benefited more than 1,300 school districts nationwide. To help meet the accessibility needs of students with learning and/or visual disabilities, the program offers a range of software that reads printed text out loud. The software suite includes titles such as Scan and Read Pro, Talking Calculator, Talking Word Processor, Text to Audio, Ultimate Talking Dictionary, and more. Applicants have no obligation to buy, but after the grant period has expired, applicants will have the option to pay a nominal fee to continue the product maintenance, technical support, and upgrades. Grant applications take two to three weeks to process.

The Broad Foundation's mission is to improve K-12 urban public education through better governance, management, and labor relations. The foundation seeks applications that aim to enlist talent, redefine roles and authorities, develop high-performing leaders and systems, provide incentives for results, and honor and showcase success. Organizations seeking funding should carefully review the foundation's web site to ensure that their proposals are consistent with its mission and that the focus of the work is located in one of the eligible districts. The foundation considers concept papers at the end of the month in which they are received. All concept papers will receive a response within 60 days, and applicants whose concept papers are of interest to the foundation may be asked to submit a full proposal. Note that the foundation funds less than five percent of unsolicited inquiries.

Cartridges 4 Kids, an environmentally smart fundraising program, is giving away $50 every two months to one lucky winner. To enter, participants must return an Easy Return Collection Box of qualifying printer cartridges and/or cell phones during the contest period. Every qualifying box returned will increase an applicant's chances of winning. For its fundraising program, Cartridges 4 Kids pays up to $10 for empty printer cartridges and up to $25 for cell phones. The company estimates that organizations can earn up to $1,500 per year by recycling.

The Citigroup Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Citibank Corp., dedicates approximately 75 percent of its charitable contributions to community development and education programs. The foundation's K-12 giving focuses on strengthening education in low-income neighborhoods. Its grants emphasize the creation of "smarter schools" and "smarter classrooms." The "smarter schools" initiative supports improvements in the governance of public schools and higher standards for student performance. It also funds alternative schools that offer more individual attention to students, as well as mentoring and tutoring programs. The "smarter classrooms" initiative supports innovative classroom technologies and successful school-to-work programs. The Citigroup Foundation prefers to solicit proposals from grantees with demonstrated successes. Unsolicited proposals will be accepted, but a favorable decision is less likely. For guidelines, see the foundation's web site.

Classroom Classifieds, a new web-based business, gives school districts classified advertising web pages on which community members can sell unwanted goods in exchange for donating part of their proceeds to the school system. Classroom Classifieds works on the honor system. Those posting ads agree to donate anything from 1 percent (or less) to 100 percent of the sale to the education foundation. Participating schools are charged fees for creating the web pages and the amount of ads that run, but the company says schools can offset the costs with their donations. A basic site, with 100 classified ads a month, costs $20 per month.

The Coca-Cola Foundation supports high-quality education and encourages new solutions to the problems that impede educational systems today. It also supports programs that have been proven to work. The foundation makes grants to public and private colleges and universities, elementary and secondary schools, teacher training programs, educational programs for minority students, and global educational programs. The Coca-Cola Foundation Board of Directors reviews funding proposals in quarterly meetings. All requests receive a written response when the review process is complete.

Actor Paul Newman donates to charity all of his after-tax profits from the sale of his Newman's Own line of products, which include steak sauce, salad dressing, and lemonade. Since founding the company, he has donated more than $150 million to thousands of projects in the areas of education, children's issues, disaster relief, arts, affordable housing, elderly groups, environmental causes, and hunger relief. You can contact Newman's Own in writing at: Newman's Own, 246 Post Road East, Westport, CT 06880.

Through its Computers for Learning program, the federal government has placed hundreds of thousands of surplus computers in schools across the country on a needs-first basis. Schools register and request equipment on the Computers for Learning web site, and federal agencies match their surplus equipment to schools with those needs. Most, but not all, of the available computers are Windows-based PCs rather than computers made by Apple. Most of the donated machines are older models, but as the government continues to upgrade its computer systems, the number of surplus Pentium computers will sharply increase. Computers and equipment are not refurbished by the government before being shipped to schools, nor are they covered by warranty.

The Corning Inc. Foundation, established in 1952, develops and administers projects in support of educational, cultural, and community organizations. Over the years, the foundation has contributed more than $83 million through its grant programs. Each year, the foundation fulfills approximately 225 grants totaling some $2.25 million. Corning's areas of involvement have included community service programs for students, curriculum enrichment, student scholarships, facility improvement, and instructional technology projects for the classroom. The foundation also supports youth centers, YMCAs, and local chapters of Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. All requests for support must be made in writing.

CVS pharmacy has been promoting innovative thinking in public schools for more than a decade. The CVS Innovations Grants program provides three-year grants totaling $75,000 along with annual conferences, access to nationally known educators, and on-site assistance to help "innovators" implement their ideas. Access to this program begins with a request for proposal to schools within a geography selected by CVS.

CyberLearning, a project of the National Education Foundation, aims to help bridge the digital divide by giving K-12 schools, colleges, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations the opportunity to receive matching grants to access more than 1,000 online courses in information technology (IT), management, and SAT preparation. Applicants must write a one-page proposal that describes their target population and how they would use the courses to improve the IT, management, or SAT skills of this population, including students, teachers, and staff. One-year matching grants ranging from $30,000 to $10 million are awarded to applicants based on the poverty level of the target populations or communities. Recent awards include $50,000 to Seattle Shoreline Community College, $250,000 to the New Haven School District in Connecticut, and $4,000,000 to the New Jersey State Department of Education to train 75,000 disadvantaged high school students and teachers.

The DIRECTV Goes to School program offers educators a free, nonviolent educational programming package and satellite equipment to reach students through auditory, kinesthetic, and visual means. The programming package, called SCHOOL CHOICE, is available to state-accredited public and private schools serving students in grades K-12. A free DIRECTV Multi-Satellite System also will be provided, although there is a limited quantity available. Installation costs are not included.

Each year the Dow Chemical Co. supports many school districts/school boards and efforts in and around communities in which Dow is located wit cash or product donations, research grants, in-kind services, or volunteered times. Dow prioritizes its areas for K-12 education funding to: math and science; teacher training; and parental involvement. Dow further categorizes the qualified K-12 programs to: national, state and local programs that benefit Dow communities; programs that promote systemic education reform in math and science; and school districts and school boards, rather than individual schools.

Earthwatch Institute, an international nonprofit organization founded in 1972, offers fellowships for K-12 educators to join two-week field expeditions in the summer. Projects range from archeological digs in Peru, to habitat studies in Oregon, to running transects through reefs in the Bahamas. The institute aims to promote multidisciplinary science and social studies curriculum in schools nationwide, as well as enrich teachers and enhance the academic experience of students. While in the field, fellows work side by side with researchers on one of more than 60 ongoing research projects worldwide. In most cases, no special skills are necessary. The institute is looking for adventuresome, curious, and innovative people who are committed to lifelong learning. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but most decisions are made during the spring.

Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment by putting them in the field where they can assist scientists in field work. Fellowships are available to educators who wish to participate in an Earthwatch expedition. Expeditions are ongoing research projects confronting critical, current issues, run by qualified and respected members of the scientific community. Earthwatch expeditions are not tours, not ecotourism, not adventure travel; they are short-term volunteer opportunities directly assisting scientists in their field research. Adventuresome and innovative elementary, middle, and high school educators and administrators who are interested in natural and cultural conservation, sustainability, and life-long learning are eligible to apply for the Education Fellowship Program. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Early applications are eligible for a wider variety of projects. Fellowships will be made until available funding is exhausted. Fellowships are still available only for educators in San Francisco, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. (Please note: there is a non-refundable $35 application fee required.)

The EcoPhones Drive is a cellular phone fund-raising and recycling program that pays organizations up to $100 for each used digital cell phone they turn in. No buying or selling is required to participate, just recycling. EcoPhones provides a free marketing kit to help launch community phone drives. Once you have collected a full box of cell phones, EcoPhones will pick them up for free. Within 60 days you'll receive a check.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation is dedicated to creating and sustaining thriving communities where Entergy employees live and work. To do this, Entergy funds programs that aim to eliminate illiteracy by providing reading and writing skills. The Foundation staff reviews and evaluates funding requests before they are presented to the Board of Directors. Generally, the Board evaluates applications three times per year. Applications must be postmarked by the following deadlines: Feb. 1, May 1, and Aug. 1.

Intel Corp.'s Education PC Program provides the opportunity for teachers, staff, students, and parents to purchase high-quality educational computers at discounted prices. The program's web page provides links to computer and equipment manufacturers that support schools through the Intel Model School Program by delivering reliable PC systems to schools. By clicking on any of the links on the page, you can view products and services that are discounted through this program from companies such as Acer, Dell, Gateway, and HP. Schools purchase directly from the manufacturer at prices discounted for education.

Troxell Communications, a supplier of audiovisual equipment to the scholastic market, and Hitachi America Ltd., a global electronics company, have partnered to offer cash rebates to schools that purchase audiovisual equipment from a comprehensive list of products made eligible for the program. With the intention of supplementing strained district budgets, the rebates return actual money to schools' general funds at the direction of district administrators. Educators can use the funds for school programs, books, supplies and equipment, fuel, and transportation costs, or any purpose deemed appropriate by the district. The program starts July 1, 2004.

PLUS Vision Corp., a maker of ultra-portable projectors, has announced a new program called Education Spotlight. Through the program, PLUS Vision will donate one projector and an electronic copy board to a selected school each quarter, reflecting a commitment to increase the effective use of multimedia in K-12 education. Applicants are asked to give a unique example of how the projector will be used when applying for the award. Recipients are chosen based on the creativity of their response, and PLUS Vision will share innovative applications with other educators on its web site.

The Educational Foundation of America (EFA) makes grants to qualifying non-profit organizations provides grants for specific projects related to the environment, the crisis of human overpopulation and reproductive freedom, Native Americans, arts, education, medicine, and human services. The Educational Foundation of America was established in 1959 to preserve the lifelong altruistic commitment of its founders, Richard Prentice Ettinger and his wife, Elsie P. Ettinger. Applicants are required to send a Letter of Inquiry as the first step. Check foundation's the web site for more details.

The Kinko's Educator Savings Program aims to provide relief for teachers who often dig deep into their own pockets to purchase supplies for their classrooms. Through this program, educators can save 20 percent on most Kinko's products and services. Teachers and administrators from kindergarten through college can now enjoy discount pricing on such offerings as black and white and color copying and finishing, oversized copies, posters, signs and banners, paper, and desk supplies. Educators may obtain their 20 percent discount card through a program brochure available at participating Kinko's locations nationwide. Free discount cards are also available online.

The Ford Motor Co. Fund makes awards in six categories: education, environment, public policy, health and social programs, civic affairs and community development, and arts and humanities. Across these areas, Ford Fund grants to nonprofit organizations totaled $83.8 million in 2002 and $77.4 million in 2003.

Epson America, in partnership with FundingFactory, allows schools and nonprofits nationwide to return ink cartridges for rewards that can boost fundraising efforts and help the environment. Educational and nonprofit organizations can earn points by collecting genuine Epson ink cartridges and sending them to FundingFactory for recycling. The cartridges will be converted to energy through an environmentally sound incineration process at a licensed waste-to-energy recycling facility. Participation in FundingFactory is completely free to all schools and nonprofit organizations. Once an organization registers at FundingFactory's web site, materials are sent to help them launch the program and start earning points in an easy-to-use online account. Their account is credited with points for every eligible Epson cartridge sent in; those points can be redeemed by the organization for cash and/or equipment.

The Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation (GAERF) has provided more than $4.5 million to fund more than 125 projects at more than 45 institutions since it was founded in 1983. GAERF awards two types of grants: full grants and mini-grants. Mini-grants are awarded for projects such as one-day workshops, specialized conferences, and the production of career and educational materials. Funding is limited to $2,500 per project and may be submitted at any time. Four mini-grants are awarded per year. Requests for mini-grant funding should be submitted in the same manner as other foundation proposals.

Intergraph Mapping and GIS Solutions will award GeoMedia Education Grants valued at more than $6 million. The grants will recognize innovative teaching that advances the use of geographic information sciences by educators and students in the classroom. Grants will be awarded on two levels: (1) community colleges, technical schools, and universities; and (2) K-12 primary and secondary schools. By taking advantage of these grants, students and teachers can use GeoMedia's leading-edge technology to explore new possibilities and impact the future of geographic information systems (GIS). They can learn GIS principles and methodology, spatial analysis techniques, GIS data construction, and a variety of other application capabilities. Products that will be part of the grant program are GeoMedia Professional, GeoMedia WebMap Professional, IntelliWhere OnDemand, and IntelliWhere LocationServer with Intergraph's powerful location-based services technology.

The Google Grants program supports nonprofit organizations focused in areas such as science and technology, education, global public health, the environment, youth advocacy, and the arts. Google Grants harnesses the power of its flagship advertising product, Google AdWords, to nonprofits seeking to inform and engage their constituents online. Google Grant recipients use their award of three months of free AdWords advertising on Google.com to raise awareness and increase traffic. Google Grants has awarded AdWords advertising to hundreds of nonprofit groups whose missions range from animal welfare and literacy to supporting homeless children and promoting HIV education.

Teachers, whose ideas are selected by iScienceProject.com, will be loaned a classroom set of HOBO data logger equipment for up to two months to run their experiments. A HOBO data logger is a matchbox sized, battery-operated device that can measure air temperature (Fahrenheit and Celsius), water temperature, matter (solid, liquid, and gas) temperature, relative humidity, dew point, light, vibration, contact closure (open/closed), motor (on/off), AC sensors, and more. Once teachers return the sets and their experiment results, teachers are eligible to win HOBO gift certificates ranging from $40 to $300.

On March 9, Lawson Software launched www.ImpactSchools.org, an online giving tool that allows donors to provide direct funding to the elementary or secondary school of their choice within a participating district. This tool allows school advocates to choose to donate to a specific program within each school, such as music, computers, sports, or field trips. In total, 97 percent of every tax-deductible donation goes directly to the school and program of choice. St. Paul Public Schools is the first district, with 68 participating schools, to benefit from this program. In the coming year, St. Paul-based Lawson plans to roll out ImpactSchools.org to districts across the nation. To get more information or to sign up, send an eMail to the address listed below.

The National Education Association's Foundation for the Improvement of Education (NFIE) now offers more than 300 small grants of $2,000 to $5,000 each on an ongoing, year-round basis. These grants fund classroom innovations or professional development for improved practice in public K-12 schools and higher-education institutions. NFIE will award up to 250 Innovation grants worth $5,000 per year and 75 Leadership & Learning grants ranging between $2,000 and $5,000. Grants will fund activities for 12 months from the date of the award.

Intel Corp. offers a wide range of support for many technology- and science-related initiatives. On a national level, Intel funds programs that advance math, science, or technology education, promote science careers among women and underrepresented minorities, or increase public understanding of technology and its impact. National grants are made either to national projects or to local projects that serve as pilots for national programs. Community grants are viewed with the same priorities and are subject to the same rules as national grants, but they are limited to communities where Intel has a major facility: Chandler, Ariz.; Folston and Santa Clara, Calif.; Rio Rancho, N.M.; Hillsboro, Ore.; Fort Worth, Texas; and DuPont, Wash. Finally, Intel's Teach to the Future program aims to train two million teachers worldwide. Combined with software and equipment discounts from companies such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Premio, and Toshiba, Teach to the Future represents approximately a half-billion dollars invested by leading U.S. computer firms in bringing technology to the classroom. Applications for all these programs can be found on Intel's web site.

eProfessional Association, the nonprofit arm of Minnesota-based Distributed Website Corp., is providing $10 million in grants for web-based applications to help K-12 schools and districts add new features to their existing school web sites. For the grant process, eProfessional Association will conduct a needs assessment with the requesting organization's technology or administrative staff. Only schools that are found to benefit from reduced operational costs as a result of the technology will be provided with grants. Grants range from $500 to $100,000 depending upon the applicant's need. Applicants are required to contribute a portion of the cost, which will be determined based on the school's financial capability.

The State Farm Companies Foundation awards grants to K-12 public schools in the United States and Canada to support the following education initiatives: education reform or curriculum changes that improve student achievement; after-school programs; improving teacher quality; and school-to-work programs. Proposals are accepted year-round and are reviewed in a timely manner. However, approval time depends on the requested amount and completeness of the proposal. Requests exceeding $100,000 are considered quarterly. The foundation accepts one proposal per organization per year. See the foundation's web site for more details.

The Waksman Foundation supports projects that enhance teachers' use of microorganisms to teach science in the K-12 classroom. Eligible projects are designed to enhance K-12 education through teacher training, course or curriculum development, construction of laboratory exercises, or innovative use of electronic media. There are no fixed application deadlines, but proposals submitted by the end of September or January can be assured of action within a month or two. Applicants are encouraged to contact the foundation by telephone or eMail before submitting a proposal.

The Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation, founded in 1957, funds large-scale education and community improvement projects that address issues of importance to local communities and are supported by the management of local Lowe's stores. The foundation has a long and proud history of contributing to grassroots community projects. Requests are processed within three to four weeks, and a written response will be sent via U.S. mail within eight to 10 weeks. Owing to the large volume of requests, the foundation is unable to fulfill every request. Unsolicited requests and proposals not aligned with Lowe's focus areas will not be funded.

MainBrain Inc., which makes web-based software to improve parent-teacher communication, is giving grants of more than $10,000 to select schools in North Carolina so they can acquire the company's software at cost. The company's flagship product, MainBrain School, provides parents with access to information about the school, classes, and grades. The software reportedly can send alerts about school closings, grades, absences, or upcoming special events directly to a parent's eMail account or cell phone; allow parents to fill out and return permission slips online; easily update and manage the school's home page with current events and information; and enable users to create web pages for classes, sports, clubs, and other activities simply by pointing and clicking, putting everything from cafeteria schedules to homework assignments online.

Wolfram Research Inc., the maker of a technical computing software system called Mathematica, is donating Mathematica Classroom Pack licenses to applicants who show outstanding creative promise in using Mathematica to enhance their education and research activities. Recipients also should demonstrate a commitment to expanding the use of Mathematica within their school and should be able to act as a reference for other schools.

In 2000, Merrill Lynch adopted children and youth as its global cause for 2000 to 2005. The foundation supports programs that meet the educational needs and interests of underserved children and youth, and it gives priority to specific programs and projects that are innovative, sustainable, easily expanded from a local to a global perspective, and have a measurable impact. Technology skills in particular were cited by the foundation as one of several elements a project can address. The Merrill Lynch Foundation gives priority to grant requests from New York City and national organizations that reflect its focus, but the foundation does consider a small number of unsolicited requests from nonprofit organizations, including school districts. All requests outside of New York City should be submitted to the branch managers of local offices. When making a grant decision, the foundation considers other type of support an organization already might be receiving (e.g., matching gifts, United Way funds, etc.).

Microsoft Corp. plans to commit more than $1 billion over the next five years to Unlimited Potential (UP), a global initiative focused on providing technology skills to disadvantaged individuals through community-based technology and learning centers. In the first round of UP grants, Microsoft awarded $8.1 million in cash and software to 82 nonprofit organizations. Initially, UP will provide funding to help community-based technology and learning centers hire and train technology instructors. Subsequent phases of the initiative will offer an online global support network delivering technology curriculum, research, tools, and help-desk services. UP also will sponsor a global and regional awards program, which will invest in technology solutions that deliver a social benefit. The awards are designed to encourage innovation and provide the funding necessary to help the best technology solutions scale for broader use.

Since 2000, MissionFish has helped nonprofits raise hundreds of thousands of dollars through eBay's online auctions. Schools and districts can register for free to appear in MissionFish's database of benefiting organizations. When eBay sellers list their item for sale through MissionFish, they can then pick your school and indicate a percentage of the proceeds to donate, ranging from 10 to 100 percent.

Intel Corp.'s Model School Program gives every school in the United States the chance to apply for potential seeding of equipment. To apply, schools must submit an innovative proposal for using technology to enhance instruction, and if Intel likes what it sees, it will match grant recipients with companies that can provide the equipment necessary to meet their needs. Whitney High School in Cerritos, Calif., and Miami Carol City Senior High School in Miami are the program's first two recipients.

The Mockingbird Foundation Inc., which generates charitable proceeds from fans of the rock band Phish, funds music education programs for children. The foundation looks for projects that encourage creative expression in all musical forms (including composition, instrumentation, vocalization, and improvisation), but also support more basic needs within conventional instruction. The foundation is particularly, though not exclusively, interested in funding programs that benefit disenfranchised groups. Interested parties should review the funding guidelines available at the Mockingbird Foundation web site. In its first three rounds of funding, the foundation contributed more than $250,000 to music education.

NASA is recruiting individuals with specific experience and expertise in K-12 education to become Educator Astronauts who will help the Agency develop new ways to connect space exploration with the classroom. Selected Educator Astronaut applicants will be designated astronaut candidates and assigned to the Astronaut Office at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Educator Astronaut candidates must successfully complete a one-to-two year training and evaluation program prior to receiving a space flight assignment. Educator Astronaut candidates who successfully complete their training will be eligible for multiple flights aboard the Space Shuttle and, possibly, the International Space Station.

Through Partners in Education, Symbol Technologies supports a number of educational institutions locally and nationally, but is particularly eager to assist students pursuing technical careers. Symbol prides itself upon its scientific and entrepreneurial innovations; therefore, the company is dedicated to supporting a number of initiatives that propel the continuation of research and innovation within universities and colleges, as well as other venues.

Each month during the school year, the Pay It Forward Foundation awards $500 grants to K-12, service-oriented projects that benefit the school, neighborhood, or greater community. When completing an application, teachers should explain the project thoroughly, include specific details about its educational value, and attach a clear and concise budget. Funds may be used for supplies, materials, equipment, or transportation to a service site.

For a limited time, with every purchase of a PLUS Vision U5 series projector, school administrators also will receive a free copy board with their order. The U5 series is PLUS Vision's newest value-based projector line geared for the education market. The PLUS Vision copy boards allow for text and drawings to be copied directly from the board's surface to a memory card, eliminating the need to connect to a PC. PLUS Vision said it paired these two products for education because recent studies indicate that students who are taught with interactive technology, like a copy board and a projector, tend to be more engaged in the classroom.

Part of a $100 million investment in early childhood education by the PNC Financial Services Group, the PNC Grow Up Great grant program offers $503,000 to better prepare children, from birth to age five, for school. Grants will be awarded to 12 early-education organizations, including Head Start centers. Nearly $50 million of PNC's overall investment will be devoted to grants to nonprofit early-education organizations over the next 10 years.

Polycom Inc., a provider of collaborative communications solutions, will give a complimentary individual membership in the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) to Polycom customers when they purchase at least $500 worth of educational equipment. The USDLA monitors new technologies and supports systems that are fully integrated, teacher-friendly, and network-supported. Membership includes USDLA news alerts via eMail; discounts for all USDLA-sponsored events, including conferences, national policy forums, and distance learning meetings; benefits of national legislative representation from USDLA; and member discounts for USDLA products and services, including offerings from USDLA premium sponsors. The membership is available for primary and secondary school educators.

Lexmark's Print Art Education Program donates art-inspired lesson plans, CD-ROMs, and printers to schools across the country to help children learn history, language arts, math, and science. Through this program, Lexmark donates either a Lexmark Z53 or a Lexmark Z45 color art-quality inkjet printer to each elementary, middle, and high school in the district. The hardware comes with a warranty and the proper cabling. With this technology, Lexmark also donates a "Print Gallery" CD-ROM--the product of an exclusive collaboration between Lexmark and the largest consortium of art museums in Europe. The disc includes software and approximately 100 high-resolution works of art that allow the students to view, explore, and learn about art masterpieces from the great museums of Europe. Each school also receives a teacher's guide with sample lesson plans. This guide includes academic exercises that put the CD to use in virtually every discipline, from art, to language, to social studies, to math and science. In addition, program participants are eligible to receive one donated inkjet cartridge for every three inkjet cartridges purchased. Every order is shipped free of charge.

Intergraph Corp.'s Process, Power & Marine educational grant program is an initiative meant to train educators and send fully-equipped students into the process, power, and offshore industries. The program is designed to introduce and stimulate the use of Intergraph's plant lifecycle engineering software at educational institutions with strong plant-oriented engineering programs. Intergraph says its educational grant program puts cutting-edge engineering applications in the classroom. It includes Intergraph's engineering software, program options dependent on institution curriculum and expertise, maintenance for the life of the grant (which is renewable each year), training for instructors, technical assistance in on-site product installation, and one registration to Intergraph's annual user conference.

Through its Project Enhance Program, Computers for Youth (CFY) distributes working Pentium-level computers to New York City public schools for use within the school building. School administrators interested in being considered for Project Enhance should eMail the program. CFY fills requests for donations on a first-come, first-served basis, while also balancing requests to ensure equity among boroughs and districts. CFY is best known for its project, Take IT Home NY, that helps improve the educational, social, and economic prospects for low-income students and their families by providing them with home computers and the skills to use them. To distribute the computers through this program, CFY partners with local area schools.

The Reading Pen Group is offering two types of grants: the Readingpen K-12 Grant and the Readingpen Higher Education Grant. The K-12 Grant provides assistance to pioneering educators who want to use Readingpen in effective and creative ways to improve students' reading skills. The Higher Education Grant is designed to support innovative and valuable uses of Readingpen at the college and university level for teacher professional development or research. Proposed projects for both the K-12 and higher-education grants must focus on using Readingpen devices in daily instruction with K-12 students, whether in the classroom or during homework. Grant recipients get 10 Readingpen devices; teacher support materials that include a Teacher's Guide, student activities, and white papers; and guidance from a mentor or senior reading specialist with experience in integrating technology into the K-12 environment. The approximate value of each grant package is $1,000.

The Prudential Foundation's Ready to Learn grant program provides support to innovative direct-service education programs that address the needs of communities the company serves. Ready to Learn funds initiatives that strengthen public education at the elementary school level. The program supports education reform efforts that strengthen public education at the elementary school level. Within this framework, the Foundation will emphasize systemic school reform meant to improve the quality of teachers, principals, and other school leaders, and arts education. The program funds early childhood care and education initiatives, focusing on programs that support professional development for pre-kindergarten through third-grade teachers or create model classrooms. Funds are also provided for strategies to improve literacy that address professional development for teachers, family literacy programs, or literacy in the early years. The Prudential Foundation serves the Newark and surrounding New Jersey urban centers. It also funds programs in cities where Prudential has a significant presence. These cities include Atlanta, Chicago, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Philadelphia and Phoenix. The Foundation may also fund national programs that further their objectives and can be implemented or replicated in cities where Prudential has a substantial presence. The Foundation receives and reviews proposals throughout the year. Grants that exceed $200,000 must be approved by its board of trustees, which meets three times a year.

The RGK Foundation awards grants in the broad areas of education, community, and medicine or health. The foundation's primary interests within education include programs that focus on formal K-12 education (particularly mathematics, science, and reading or literacy), after-school tutoring and enrichment, integrating technology into the curriculum, teacher development, and higher education. The foundation is particularly interested in programs that attract female and minority students into the fields of mathematics, science, and technology. The foundation does not consider unsolicited grant proposals; instead, applicants are required to submit an electronic Letter of Inquiry on the foundation's web site. Letters of Inquiry are reviewed on an ongoing basis, so there is no deadline for submission. The foundation will respond to letters by eMail within three weeks to let applicants know if they should submit a formal proposal.

The Quick Start program from SafeDesk Solutions allows organizations to begin exploring how thin-clients can benefit their infrastructure. By providing a 30-user SafeDesk Standard configuration free of charge, the company enables school IT professionals to deploy a Linux-based thin-client network in less than an hour--and be supported along the way. A thin-client network is a networking system that uses underpowered computers as workstations on networks powered through a central server. Chosen applicants will receive a free SafeDesk Basic thin-client server configuration for up to 30 concurrent users; a periodic web-based newsletter showcasing new features and best practices; tiered phone and eMail-based deployment support; 60 days of free upgrades and maintenance service; and discounts on future purchases.

Each year, Ohana Educational Supplies donates $100 worth of much-needed school supplies to 1,000 different classrooms across the country. Chosen schools will be asked to pay only the standard shipping rate. There are no obligations with this donation, except to use it where it's needed most.

webEdition Software Ltd. is offering its web site content management system (CMS) software for free to schools throughout North America to help schools build current and informative web sites for teachers, administrators, students, and parents alike. North American primary and secondary schools who apply will receive full access to webEdition's Standard Version of their software at no cost. All other webEdition products and modules can be purchased for research and teaching purposes at a discount of 25 percent off of the regular purchase price.

Share the Technology is a web site that provides a way for donors and potential recipients to connect no matter where they are in the country. Schools, nonprofit organizations, and individuals can search message boards and databases on the site to find computers and equipment available for free in their region. The web site warns schools and other donation seekers that while some of the equipment is in excellent condition, not all equipment is in good working condition. Therefore, recipients should carefully evaluate the donated items before accepting them.

The Sprint Foundation supports educational projects that foster school reform through the use of new technologies and through fresh approaches to the enhancement of teachers' skills. Although Sprint does not have an application form, the foundation recommends that applicants identify how their projects support Sprint's objectives: innovation and the use of technology in the classroom; enhanced education for minorities and/or the disadvantaged; and increased employee and public support of education. Because these grants are supported by employee contributions matched by foundation funds, grants are available primarily for projects in areas with a significant employee presence, such as Kansas City, Atlanta, Dallas, and Sacramento. Schools and other education-related nonprofit agencies can apply for grants totaling about $500,000 per year. The Sprint Foundation reviews unsolicited proposals on a continuous basis. Applicants typically will receive a response within four to six weeks.

Staples Inc. will donate $1 to public schools for every eligible ink cartridge they collect. Staples created the "Staples Recycle for Education" program in July 2003 to encourage cartridge recycling at its 1,100 U.S. stores but has now expanded the program nationwide. Staples now provides prepaid postage for shipping the cartridges and an account number so schools can monitor the status of reimbursement checks and total collection counts. Parents or teachers can log on to the web site below to register their school and receive a welcome kit that includes flyers to announce the program.

Students, schools, universities, and nonprofit organizations participating in the SUSE LINUX Education Program will receive 40-percent discounts on open-source Linux software through SUSE's partners CCV Software and RICIS Inc. This new program helps schools provide flexible, cost-efficient software solutions at a fraction of the cost of proprietary software. Applications available range from server software to text processing, spreadsheets, eMail clients, internet browsers, and more.

The Teaching Tolerance project of the Southern Poverty Law Center offers grants of up to $2,000 to K-12 classroom teachers for implementing tolerance and youth activism projects in their schools and communities. Proposals from other educators, such as community organizations and churches, will be considered on the basis of direct student impact. Projects must be sustainable rather than one-time-only events or activities. Salaries, stipends, presenter fees, overhead costs, travel expenses, food items, and computer hardware are not normally funded.

For the past 25 years, ConocoPhillips Co. has been producing high-quality educational videos and teachers' guides for math, science, and environmental topics. These materials have been offered to qualified teachers for free and have been seen by millions of junior high and high school students. These free teaching guides and videos cover topics ranging from math and science to problem solving and protecting wildlife. To order one of ConocoPhillips' educational films, visit the Teaching Tools web site or fax your request to (570) 822-8226.

The Teammates for Kids Foundation accepts proposals for grants from nonprofit organizations that specialize in working with children. Grants support the ongoing work of operating organizations that help needy children in the areas of health, education, and inner-city services. The foundation's priorities focus on educational achievement in areas of documented weakness; advanced learning opportunities to gifted children who would otherwise lack the resources necessary to pursue dreams and talents; and exposing children to learning opportunities they would otherwise not experience because of insufficient financial resources. The foundation will accept applications twice in 2005: Feb. 1 and July 31.

Since 1995, privately-funded Tech Corps has provided no-cost assistance in maintaining their technology systems to schools connected to the internet. The Tech4schools Online Mentoring Program provides online, volunteer technical assistance to educators and school technology coordinators. Typically, a team of as many as 10 volunteers (each with a specialty, such as software or networking) will support a single technology coordinator, who may represent an individual school or an entire district. Tech Corps volunteers are available in 43 states.

The Tellabs Foundation, created by telecommunications provider Tellabs Inc., supports local and national education programs with a particular focus on curricula for engineering, science, mathematics, and technology. The Foundation focuses its support on programs in areas in which Tellabs employees live and work. Unless invited by the Foundation Board to submit a full grant proposal, all new applicants or programs first must submit a letter of inquiry. The deadline for letters of inquiry or invited proposals is four weeks prior to every Tellabs Foundation Board meeting, which are held quarterly, usually in January, April, July and October. Proposals received after the deadline will be considered at the next meeting. It is recommended that letters of inquiry be submitted at least four months before funding is needed.

The Texas Instruments Foundation requires no special application form. Grants usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, but the foundation has awarded some schools up to $100,000. Approximately 65 awards are granted each year. Applicants are encouraged to submit one- or two-page proposals that briefly outline the following: purpose of the organization, population served, amount requested, how the requested funds will be used, how the proposal matches funding interests of the foundation, and a copy of 501(c)(3) designation. Proposals are considered from civic, research, educational, health, welfare, charitable, and cultural organizations that have been ruled to be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and that are not private foundations as defined by the code.

Parametric Technology Corp. is proud to offer technology teacher-led training workshops, free unlimited licenses of Pro/DESKTOP 3D design software, classroom materials, and projects. We also encourage teachers to allow students to install Pro/DESKTOP at home. The Design & Technology in Schools Program introduces students to 3D design technology as early as middle school, so they can become better problem solvers, critical thinkers, and collaborators. The program is about more than just free software--it teaches technological literacy, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.

The GLOBE program, which stands for Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment, is a hands-on, school-based science and education program. It was formed through a partnership between several organizations including the National Science Foundation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency. The program teaches students how to research environmental topics while encouraging them to share their findings via the web. Specifically, the program provides resources for students to monitor the environment through the use of soil samples, atmospheric readings, land cover, and phenology. Teachers also benefit from this program through free training at GLOBE workshops, complementary educational videos, and continuous access to a teacher's help desk.

The Melody program is designed to provide musical instruments and instrument repairs to existing K-12 school music programs that have no other source of financing to purchase additional musical instruments or materials. Applicants whose music programs lack institutional financial support and whose students qualify for financial assistance will receive greater consideration. The applicant school must have an ongoing music program that is at least three years old.

Each month, Virtual Ink Corp. will award a free mimio electronic whiteboard system to an educator who submits the most original, innovative, or creative entry incorporating the use of mimio at his or her school. Mimio, which works with PC and Mac platforms, attaches to any whiteboard and electronically captures everything that is written or drawn in color and in real time. Rooted in the classroom, mimio originated at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as a practical solution to a frustrating teaching dilemma: Students were so focused on accurately duplicating the drawings on the classroom's dry-erase whiteboard that they often missed important lecture details and failed to actively participate in class discussions. The contest is open to educators from around the world. Educators interested in entering the Think Ink contest can do so by visiting the company's web site and completing an entry form. Entrants should describe the creative ways in which they would incorporate mimio to foster greater student-teacher collaboration and productivity within the classroom.

By taking advantage of Texas Instruments' Volume Purchase Program, educators can get free technology and classroom activities when they purchase qualifying TI educational handhelds. Under the program, K-12 educators collect proofs of purchase and earn points toward free TI handheld technology, and they can earn double points when they purchase the TI-83 Plus Silver Edition. For additional details, check the company's web site. Contact: (866) 848-7722 or ti-educators@ti.com

The Tiger Woods Foundation provides grants that focus on providing opportunities to underserved children and families in the four program areas: education, youth development, parenting, and family health and welfare. In the education area, the foundation funds school programs and projects that enhance the learning process for children and transitional school programs for young adults to become productive adults. The foundation considers and awards grants four times each year: Feb. 1, May 1, Aug. 1, and Nov. 1. Applications submitted after one cycle has closed will be considered during the next cycle. Organizations may apply for a grant only one time during a calendar year.

The Toshiba America Foundation awards grants for programs and activities that improve the classroom teaching of science, mathematics, and technology for middle and high school students. Public and private schools, local educational agencies, and youth organizations across the United States may apply. Projects should provide direct benefits to students and should include teacher-led, classroom-based experiences. The Small Grants Program awards grants of up to $5,000 monthly throughout the year. The Large Grants Program awards grants of more than $5,000 in March and September, with deadlines of Feb. 1 and Aug. 1, respectively. The foundation's total annual grants budget is approximately $550,000.

CyberLearning, a project of the National Education Foundation, aims to help bridge the digital divide by giving K-12 schools, colleges, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations the opportunity to receive matching grants to access more than 1,000 online courses in information technology (IT), management, and SAT preparation. Applicants must write a one-page proposal that describes their target population and how they would use the courses to improve the IT, management, or SAT skills of their target population, including students, teachers, and staff. One-year matching grants ranging from $30,000 to $10 million are awarded to applicants based on the poverty level of the target populations or communities. Recent awards include $50,000 to Seattle Shoreline Community College, $250,000 to the New Haven School District in Connecticut, and $4,000,000 to the New Jersey State Department of Education to train 75,000 disadvantaged high school students and teachers.

The Tyco Electronics Foundation, the charitable arm of Tyco Electronics Corp., provides extensive funding for projects that enhance learning opportunities for students. In addition to a matching-gifts program for employee contributions to accredited high schools, the foundation makes direct grants for programs that address a business or community concern of Tyco Electronics. Organizations (public or private) that support pre-college math and science education receive special attention. As with many companies, Tyco focuses its support on communities--especially Pennsylvania and North Carolina--where it operates. Past projects have included wiring schools with fiber-optic cables to allow rapid internet connections. Although the foundation makes funding decisions on a quarterly basis (Dec. 15, March 15, June 15, or Sept. 15), it gives the majority of its grants in the first quarter of the year. Therefore, the best time to send in requests is ahead of the Dec. 15 quarterly deadline.

Uno Chicago Grill offers a variety of programs that support school curriculum and help schools raise money. For the Uno fundraiser, schools distribute Uno Fundraising Tickets throughout their community and, for every person who dines at Uno's and presents a ticket during the agreed time period, Uno will donate 20 percent of their check plus tax and tip to your organization. Through Uno School Awards, the restaurant offers certificates and free meal coupons that teachers can use as incentives to motivate students. Uno's also throws Uno Pizza Maker Parties for elementary school classes. Students visit the restaurant, tour the kitchen, learn about cooking safely, and then make their own pizzas.

With the help of its customers, Washington Mutual expects to drive millions of dollars in donations to K-12 schools through a new check-card program that will provide unrestricted funding to local schools for school supplies, computers, musical instruments, playground equipment, or whatever a school needs. The program, called Wamoola for Schools, ties support for local schools to check-card usage. Customers simply enroll by designating a local school to benefit and use their Washington Mutual check card. For each purchase, the school receives a point, which is worth approximately 5 cents. At the end of the year, points are converted to cash and schools are sent checks.

Westinghouse actively contributes to programs that benefit nonprofit organizations. Areas of emphasis include health and welfare, education, and civic and social pursuits. Within each area, Westinghouse encourages programs that help to meet the needs of populations such as the disadvantaged, the young, the elderly, minorities, and people with disabilities. In the area of education, emphasis is given to elementary, secondary, and high school educational programs that emphasize math and science, although consideration will be given to other relevant, non-fine arts programs.

The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation seeks to achieve greater quality and equality of educational opportunity in the United States and throughout the world through grants that support increased student achievement, improved access to exemplary educational content, and other goals as outlined on its web site. The foundation will not consider requests to fund student aid, individual scholarships, construction, equipment and computer purchases, health research, or health education programs. Applicants should submit a brief letter of intent for initial review, after which proposals may or may not be requested. Full proposals will not be accepted unless they are requested. Check the foundation's web site for details before sending a letter of intent.

Nonprofit organizations, such as teachers' associations and school foundations, are eligible to apply for this free, four-week loan of the XPRESS Audience Response System from Genieve Systems. XPRESS enhances audience involvement by allowing instructors to take votes and receive instant feedback from up to 300 people. The system is capable of administering quizzes, tests, buzz-ins, games, and training, according to the company.