Smart Start Grant Program
Eligibility
New York public schools serving PreK-Grade 3 students may apply. Programs must focus on early learning technology integration, digital literacy, or innovative early childhood education programs. Priority is given to schools serving high concentrations of low-income students.
Program Goals
NYSED's Smart Start Grant Program supports New York public schools in expanding early learning through technology integration and innovative instruction. Programs funded by Smart Start introduce young learners to digital tools, coding concepts, and technology-enhanced learning in PreK through Grade 3. The program aims to build foundational digital literacy and STEM interest for all New York students from the earliest grades.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Smart Start applications are submitted through the NYSED grants system during competitive 5-year cycles. Availability depends on state appropriations. Monitor the NYSED EdTech page for current cycle announcements and application availability.
Cycle Notes
Smart Start runs in multi-year 5-year cycles subject to state appropriation. The next cycle timeline depends on current grant expirations. Monitor nysed.gov/edtech for current program announcements.
Grant Award Amount
Awards can reach up to $250,000 per school depending on program scope and enrollment. Funds support technology tools, curriculum, and professional development for approved early learning programs.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — introductory physical computing for PreK-3 early learners
- MicroChat AI Literacy Kit — foundational AI concepts for early childhood technology programs
- Coding for Good Kit — project-based coding for Smart Start early digital literacy programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Smart Start grants in New York?
NY public schools serving PreK-Grade 3 students may apply. Priority is given to high-need schools with high concentrations of low-income students.
How much funding is available through Smart Start?
Awards can reach up to $250,000 per school.
Can Smart Start funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. Smart Start 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 New York schools apply for Smart Start?
Monitor nysed.gov/edtech for cycle announcements. Apply through the NYSED grants system when a new cycle opens.
How can Forward Education help with Smart Start funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for New York schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes Smart Start 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 — New York 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 New York funding resources
View all New York 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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