Cal Water Tap Into Learning Grants (Water Smart Grants)
Eligibility
K-12 public and private schools located within California Water Service (Cal Water) service areas are eligible. Programs must focus on water conservation, water science, or environmental education related to water and natural resources. Teachers or school administrators may apply on behalf of their school.
Program Goals
Cal Water's Tap Into Learning program provides grants to schools in Cal Water service communities to support water conservation and water education programs. Funded projects include water-themed science curriculum, conservation audits run by students, water cycle investigations, and outdoor water education programs. The goal is to build a generation of water-aware citizens who understand California's water challenges and conservation strategies.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications are submitted online through the Cal Water website. The program year runs annually with a rolling application process and a deadline of November 20 for the current year. Schools apply directly on the Cal Water website. Funded projects must be completed within the approved program year.
Cycle Notes
The Tap Into Learning program runs on an annual program year with a rolling application process through November 20. The current cycle deadline is November 20, 2026. Visit the Cal Water website at calwater.com for the application link and to confirm service territory eligibility.
Grant Award Amount
Grants award up to $5,000 per school project. Funds can be used for water education curriculum, science equipment, supplies, and materials directly related to the approved water conservation or water science program.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- CHARGE Climate Sensor Kit — water and soil sensor data collection for conservation education
- Smart Hydroponics Kit — water-efficient growing systems aligned to Cal Water conservation goals
- micro:bit Starter Kit — data logging for student-led water science and conservation projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Cal Water Tap Into Learning grants in California?
K-12 public and private schools in Cal Water service areas may apply. Programs must focus on water conservation, water science, or environmental education related to water resources.
How much funding is available through Tap Into Learning?
Grants award up to $5,000 per school project to fund water education curriculum and materials.
Can Tap Into Learning funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. Tap Into Learning 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 California schools apply for Tap Into Learning?
Apply online through the Cal Water website at calwater.com. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through November 20, 2026. Check the site to confirm your school is in a Cal Water service area.
How can Forward Education help with Tap Into Learning funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes Tap Into Learning 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 — California 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
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