The Bright Green Future Grants program was designed to recognize and support innovative projects that will inspire students to become lifelong environmental stewards. Projects selected to receive funding actively engage students and community members with hands-on involvement and learning. Past projects have focused on composting, rainwater harvesting, gardening, rain collection, bicycle academies, tree plantings, supporting wildlife, and more! We can't wait to see what your school dreams up.
- Learn more about the Bright Green Future Grants process.
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What is the dollar amount for each grant?
Schools may apply for up to $3,000 per project.
Which schools are eligible to apply?
The program is open to all Austin ISD and Austin-area charter and private schools, and schools in cities like Round Rock and Pflugerville that utilize Austin Energy, Austin Water, or Austin Resource Recovery services. Preschools, daycares centers, and grades K-12 are eligible to apply. We are not able to provide grants to home schools.
Schools that have received a Bright Green Future Grant in past years are also eligible to apply.
Can schools apply for more than one grant?
There is no limit to the number of grants each school may apply for. Depending on available funding and the overall number of applicants, your school could be awarded more than one grant per school year. Applicants must complete a separate form for each project submission.
What kinds of projects are allowed?
From beekeeping classes to pollinator murals, bike rodeos to outdoor classrooms, Bright Green Future Grants support campus-based projects that help students commit to a lifetime of sustainability. Proposed projects should demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and fall within one of our eight categories:
- community gardens
- outdoor learning spaces
- water conservation
- energy conservation
- transportation and mobility
- waste management, recycling, or composting
- greenhouse gas emissions reduction
- tree planting or other tree-related projects
Need some project inspiration? Explore the 2023-24 School Year Outcomes Report to see what schools did last year!
When are applications accepted, and when is funding awarded?
Applications open annually in mid-August and remain open through mid-September.
For the 2024-25 School Year
The deadline to apply for the 2024-25 school year was September 22, 2024.
Awarded schools will be notified if they've received a grant by mid-November. Checks will be delivered delivered by the end of the year.
Have more questions about the grant? Contact Mary K. Priddy.
See a few of our grant-funded projects in action!