FirstEnergy Foundation Giving (formerly open STEM Classroom Grants)
Eligibility
The FirstEnergy Foundation has transitioned to invitation-only strategic grantmaking and does not currently operate an open public application process for STEM Classroom Grants. Organizations in FirstEnergy service communities in Ohio that have an existing relationship with FirstEnergy may be invited to apply. Schools and nonprofits interested in FirstEnergy support should contact their local FirstEnergy community relations representative.
Program Goals
The FirstEnergy Foundation previously offered open STEM Classroom Grants to schools in Ohio communities served by FirstEnergy utilities. The Foundation has transitioned to a more strategic, invitation-based grantmaking model. Current giving focuses on education, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality in FirstEnergy communities across Ohio. Organizations interested in FirstEnergy funding should establish a relationship with local community relations staff.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
FirstEnergy Foundation currently operates invitation-only strategic grantmaking. There is no open public application process. Organizations interested in funding should contact their local FirstEnergy community relations representative to discuss potential alignment. Large organizations with demonstrated regional impact may be considered.
Cycle Notes
FirstEnergy Foundation's open STEM Classroom Grants are no longer available through a public application process. The Foundation has shifted to invitation-only strategic giving. Ohio schools seeking energy utility education grants should explore Duke Energy Foundation and AEP Ohio programs listed on this blog.
Grant Award Amount
FirstEnergy Foundation giving is invitation-only and varies by strategic investment. No public award amounts are published. Contact your local FirstEnergy community relations representative for information on potential support.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — consider for AEP Ohio, Duke Energy Foundation, or OSLN grant applications
- MicroChat AI Literacy Kit — explore other Ohio STEM grant programs on this blog
- Coding for Good Kit — see Ohio CTE Equipment Grants and OEEF programs as alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Does FirstEnergy Foundation have an open grant application for Ohio schools?
No. FirstEnergy Foundation has transitioned to invitation-only strategic grantmaking. There is no current open public application process for STEM Classroom Grants.
How can Ohio schools connect with FirstEnergy Foundation?
Contact your local FirstEnergy community relations representative to discuss potential support. Large organizations with demonstrated regional impact may be considered for strategic giving.
What Ohio utility grants are alternatives to FirstEnergy?
Ohio schools can explore Duke Energy Foundation Ohio Grants and AEP Ohio Teacher Vision Grants, both listed on this blog, as utility-funded alternatives.
How do Ohio schools find current education grant opportunities?
Explore OEEF, OSLN, Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, the Cleveland and Columbus Foundations, and Perkins V CTE funds — all listed on this blog for Ohio.
How can Forward Education help Ohio schools find funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Ohio schools. We can help identify the right current grants for your program. Contact us to start the conversation.
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 — Ohio 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 Ohio funding resources
View all Ohio AI & CS grants →Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
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