Community Endowment Fund Grants (60+ local funds)
Eligibility
K-12 schools and nonprofits in specific North Dakota communities. Each of the 60+ community endowment funds serves a defined geographic area. Eligibility, focus areas, and award amounts vary by fund. Schools should identify their local community endowment fund at ndcf.net.
Program Goals
Community endowment funds support local priorities — education, youth development, arts, and community needs. STEM programs, technology access, and student enrichment at local schools are commonly funded priorities.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications submitted through each individual community endowment fund. Find your local fund at ndcf.net and contact the fund administrator for application guidelines and deadlines.
Cycle Notes
Varies by fund. Each community endowment has its own grant cycle and deadline. Monitor ndcf.net for your local fund's timeline.
Grant Award Amount
Award amounts vary by fund size and local priorities. Some funds award $500-$2,000 micro-grants; others have larger pools for significant programs.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
How many community endowment funds does NDCF manage?
Over 60 local community endowment funds serving specific ND cities, counties, and regions.
How do I find my local fund?
Visit ndcf.net and search by community or contact the ND Community Foundation office directly.
What focus areas are supported?
Varies by fund — education, youth, arts, health, and community development are common priorities. STEM and technology programs often align well.
When are the deadlines?
Varies by fund. Check ndcf.net for your local fund's application timeline.
How can Forward Education help?
We can help frame a classroom STEM program as a local community investment that aligns with your community endowment fund's priorities.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — North Dakota standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
