Rasmuson Foundation Tier 1 Grants
Eligibility
Alaska nonprofits and organizations. K-12 schools typically apply through or partner with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The Rasmuson Foundation funds programs statewide — rural and urban Alaska communities are both eligible.
Program Goals
The Rasmuson Foundation is Alaska's largest private foundation, funding arts, education, health, and human services statewide. K-12 STEM, technology, and education programs that build long-term student outcomes are a strong fit. Programs serving rural and underserved Alaska communities are especially competitive.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Rolling applications — no fixed deadline. Apply through the Rasmuson Foundation grants portal at rasmuson.org. Tier 1 grants (up to $35,000) have a streamlined application process compared to larger Rasmuson grants.
Cycle Notes
Rolling cycle — no fixed deadline. Applications reviewed on an ongoing basis. Monitor rasmuson.org for any priority windows or focus areas.
Grant Award Amount
Up to $35,000 for Tier 1 grants. One of the largest K-12 education grant opportunities available exclusively to Alaska schools and organizations.
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
- Smart Solar Energy Kit — build and program a working solar panel to measure real-time power generation and explore renewable energy
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my school need to be a nonprofit to apply?
K-12 schools typically apply through or partner with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Check rasmuson.org for current eligibility requirements.
Is there a fixed deadline?
No — Rasmuson Foundation Tier 1 Grants are rolling. Apply any time at rasmuson.org.
What types of programs does Rasmuson fund?
Arts, education, health, and human services programs statewide. K-12 STEM and technology programs with community impact are a strong fit.
Are rural Alaska programs prioritized?
Programs serving rural and underserved communities are especially competitive. The foundation has a strong track record of supporting remote Alaska communities.
How can Forward Education help?
We provide curriculum alignment, program documentation, and letters of support for foundation grant applications.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Alaska standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence




















