Scale AI literacy across your region. One grant can prepare dozens of educators across your entire service area, valued at $1,000+ in software licenses and professional development.
A Note from Our Founder
Hands-on AI and computer science are foundational literacy for today's students. As AI reshapes everyday work, coding is no longer an elective. It is as essential as reading and writing. These young generations need educators who are ready to lead that shift.
The MicroChat CS and AI Literacy Grant gives your team everything you need to light the path Forward for your districts, teachers, and students.
Jeremy Hedges, Founder and CEO
Your Regional Impact
One grant. One region. A ripple that reaches every classroom.
How It Works
What Your Organization Receives
1-Year MicroChat License
Full site licensing for your organization, valued at $200 per license.
Virtual Staff Training
Live virtual training session for your team led by the Forward Education team.
Workshop Slides & Lessons
Ready-to-use presentation materials and AI literacy lesson plans.
Event Promotion
Your workshop highlighted to 10,000+ educators in our network.
Who Can Apply?
- RESAs and Regional Education Agencies, statewide and regional service centers serving multiple districts (priority consideration for large-scale reach)
- School Districts, public K-12 districts planning educator PD (limit of one free license bundle per district)
- Nonprofit Education Orgs, CS/STEM focused nonprofits and afterschool programs (must serve K-12 students or educators in a defined region)
- Higher Ed and Teacher Prep, colleges of education and pre-service programs (must include hands-on MicroChat training for student teachers or faculty)
Ready to apply? Submit your training event today.
Submit your proposed MicroChat training event below. Our team reviews every application and responds within 3 to 5 business days.
Questions before you apply? Email aigrant@forwardedu.com and a real human will write you back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Email training@forwardedu.com.
What is MicroChat?
MicroChat is Forward Education's micro:bit-native AI literacy software that lets students interact with a large language model directly through the micro:bit. It's designed to make AI concepts tangible and accessible for K-12 learners without requiring expensive hardware or complex setup.
How much is the site license worth?
Each MicroChat site license is valued at $200. Typical awards include 5 to 50 licenses based on the number of educators you plan to reach. Our team will work with you during the review process to determine the right allocation for your region.
Do I need to already own micro:bit hardware?
Not necessarily. If you're planning a training that features MicroChat, we can discuss hardware options during the review process. Forward Education also offers the Smart Solar Kit and Charge for micro:bit. These are complete kits that include the micro:bit and pair perfectly with MicroChat.
How long does the review process take?
Our team reviews submissions within 3-5 business days. Once approved, grants are awarded within 1 week. We'll communicate with you via the contact email you provide throughout the process.
Can I submit multiple training events?
Absolutely. If you're planning a series of workshops or training sessions across different dates or locations, you can submit each one separately or describe the full series in a single submission. We're happy to work with you on multi-session plans.
Is there a minimum number of attendees required?
We don't have a strict minimum, but training sessions that reach a broader audience of educators are prioritized. We recommend planning for at least 10-15 participants for the most impactful experience.
Can the training be virtual?
Yes! We support virtual, in-person, and hybrid training formats. Virtual sessions can be a great way to reach educators across a wider geographic area, especially for initial introductions to MicroChat.
