The Bright Green Future Grants program is a competitive program that provides funding for school-based sustainability projects up to $3,000. Applications are accepted annually at the start of the school year.

The program was designed to recognize and support innovative projects that will inspire students to become lifelong environmental stewards. Projects like composting systems, rainwater harvesting, organic gardens, rain gardens, bicycle academies, and wildlife habitats are identified by local educators and through campus EcoAudits. Projects selected to receive funding actively engage students and community members with hands-on involvement and learning.

Bird IconLearn more about the Bright Green Future Grants process.

 

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 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 tree plantings, 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 2022-23 School Year Outcomes Report to see what other schools did last year!


When are applications accepted, and when is funding awarded?

The Bright Green Future Grants program opens applications each year around the start of school.

Applications for the 2023-24 School Year grant cycle closed on September 22, 2023. Schools will be notified about whether they've received a grant by mid-November, after which checks will be processed.


Have more questions about the grant? Contact Mary K. Priddy.

See a few of our grant-funded projects in action: