Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants
Eligibility
- K–12 public and private schools
- Classroom teachers applying directly
- Nonprofit organizations supporting K–12 education
- Priority given to Title I schools and underserved communities
Program Goals
Best Buy's foundation supports free Teen Tech Centers in community organizations serving underserved teens, providing access to technology, coding, and digital skills. Also funds STEM enrichment grants for nonprofits. California locations include LA, Bay Area, and other urban centers.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Annual cycle; check bestbuyfoundation.org
Grant Award Amount
Teen Tech Center setup: up to $1M (facility grants); STEM grants vary
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — Project-based coding curriculum connecting computer science to real-world community problems. Qualifies for CS education and digital literacy funding; builds computational thinking through authentic challenges.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — Programmable microcontroller kits that introduce hands-on coding and electronics projects. Qualifies as CS/coding hardware for K-12 classrooms and supports physical computing education goals.
- MicroChat — AI-powered classroom learning tool that introduces students to artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts. Qualifies for AI literacy, educational technology, and computer science grant programs.
- CHARGE Climate Sensor — Hands-on micro:bit-based climate and environmental sensor kit for real-world data collection. Supports place-based STEM learning and qualifies for environmental science and physical computing programs.
Keep in Mind
Deadlines for this grant vary by cycle. Subscribe to notifications from the funder and prepare your project proposal now so you can move quickly when the window opens.
Artificial intelligence education is drawing strong funder interest right now. Highlight how your program builds student understanding of how AI works, not just how to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants in California?
K–12 public and private schools Classroom teachers applying directly Nonprofit organizations supporting K–12 education Priority given to Title I schools and underserved communities
How much funding is available through Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants?
Teen Tech Center setup: up to $1M (facility grants); STEM grants vary. Check the current program guidelines for the latest award ranges and allocation details.
Can Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.
How do schools apply for Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants?
Annual cycle; check bestbuyfoundation.org
How can Forward Education help with Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes Best Buy Foundation: Teen Tech Centers & STEM Grants funds. Contact us before submitting your application.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — TEKS, Common Core, and state standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
Explore more California funding resources
View all California AI & CS grants →Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
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