Rural Tech Fund
Eligibility
- K–12 public and private schools
- Classroom teachers applying directly
- Nonprofit organizations supporting K–12 education
Program Goals
Grants specifically for rural technology education and assistive technology projects. Ideal for rural California schools seeking to build coding, physical computing, or STEM programs.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Rolling; no fixed deadline, grants reviewed every 30–60 days (ruraltechfund.org)
Grant Award Amount
Typically $2K–$10K
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.
- 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
This grant accepts rolling applications, but funds are limited. Submit as soon as your project is ready rather than waiting for a deadline.
Physical computing tools like micro:bit give students a tangible way to learn coding and engineering concepts. Describe how hands-on learning builds persistence and deeper understanding compared to screen-only approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Rural Tech Fund in California?
K–12 public and private schools Classroom teachers applying directly Nonprofit organizations supporting K–12 education
How much funding is available through Rural Tech Fund?
Typically $2K–$10K. Check the current program guidelines for the latest award ranges and allocation details.
Can Rural Tech Fund funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. Rural Tech Fund 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 Rural Tech Fund?
Rolling; no fixed deadline, grants reviewed every 30–60 days (ruraltechfund.org)
How can Forward Education help with Rural Tech Fund 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 Rural Tech Fund 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
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
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