Rural Tech Fund
Eligibility
Rural K-12 schools in the United States. Washington schools in rural communities are eligible. Review ruraltechfund.org for current rural designation criteria.
Program Goals
The Rural Tech Fund provides grants to rural K-12 schools that want to start or expand computer science education programs. The program targets the CS education gap that exists between urban and rural schools, providing funding for coding tools, curriculum, and teacher training for underserved rural communities.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Schools apply through ruraltechfund.org. Applications describe the school's rural context, current CS education status, and how funds will expand access to coding. Review the website for current cycle dates and application requirements.
Cycle Notes
Annual grant cycle. Check ruraltechfund.org for current open applications and deadlines. Competition is national but focused on rural schools, which may give Washington rural districts a strong advantage.
Grant Award Amount
Awards up to $5,000 per school. Funds go toward CS curriculum, coding tools, and teacher professional development. Small but targeted grants that can launch a new CS program.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit - The perfect starter kit for rural schools launching CS education. Complete classroom-ready coding and robotics set within grant funding range.
- Forward Education Learning Platform - Digital curriculum platform that works for rural schools with limited specialist staff. Provides full lesson plans and teacher support.
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit - Engaging accessory that extends coding into interactive game design and robotics without extra equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a rural school for this grant?
Rural Tech Fund uses a rural designation based on location and community size. Check ruraltechfund.org for their specific criteria and whether your school qualifies.
Can Washington rural schools apply?
Yes. Rural K-12 schools in Washington are eligible to apply for Rural Tech Fund grants.
What can the grant fund?
Coding curriculum, coding tools and kits, and teacher professional development for CS education. The grant is designed to launch or expand CS programs.
How competitive is the Rural Tech Fund?
Competition is national but limited to rural schools. Strong applications that show clear CS education gaps and specific program plans tend to score well.
How do we apply?
Visit ruraltechfund.org to review current application guidelines and submit during the annual grant cycle.
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 - Washington 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
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.
Get the Grant Guide
