Operation Round Up (Arkansas Electric Cooperatives)
Eligibility
K-12 schools and nonprofits in Arkansas electric cooperative service areas. Most rural and small-town AR schools are served by electric cooperatives. Check aecc.com for your co-op.
Program Goals
Operation Round Up distributes funds from member bill round-ups to local schools and community organizations. Education, safety, health, and community programs are typical uses. STEM and technology projects for local schools are eligible.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications are submitted through your local Arkansas electric cooperative. The statewide deadline is September 15 annually. Contact your local co-op for their specific application process.
Cycle Notes
Annual cycle. September 15, 2026 deadline. Contact your local electric cooperative for their internal timeline — some co-ops have earlier deadlines.
Grant Award Amount
$500 to $2,500 per grant. Smaller awards with fast turnaround — ideal for classroom kit purchases and starter 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
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit — a handheld game-style controller for interactive games and physical computing
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit — a compact rechargeable power solution that makes micro:bit projects fully portable
Frequently Asked Questions
Which schools are eligible for Operation Round Up?
Schools in Arkansas electric cooperative service areas — primarily rural and small-town communities. Check aecc.com to find your cooperative.
What is the award range?
$500 to $2,500. These are smaller grants ideal for classroom starter kits.
When is the deadline?
September 15, 2026. Some local co-ops may have earlier internal deadlines.
How do I apply?
Through your local Arkansas electric cooperative. Each co-op administers Operation Round Up for their members.
What can the funds buy?
Community and education programs. STEM kits, coding tools, and classroom technology are typical eligible purchases.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Arkansas standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
