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Albany Public Schools Foundation

Big Impact Grants

Big Impact Grants support collaborative projects including two or more schools. Projects should enrich and enhance hands-on learning in the areas of art, music, STEM, health/wellness, or academic achievement. Past awards included the purchase of musical instruments for all 14 elementary schools, iPads and digital design software for two middle schools, a Farm to School program for eight elementary schools, a pottery project with elementary and high school students, and an AVID college and career night with the middle and high schools in the district.

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Big Impact Grant Criteria & Priorities

The following guidelines will assist you in applying for an Albany Public Schools Foundation Big Impact Grant. To determine the merits of the grant proposal, and ultimately the award decision, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Applicants must be GAPS administrators, teachers, or staff.
  • Applications must be submitted by the deadline.
  • Projects must include two or more schools and demonstrate a true collaboration between the schools, teachers/staff, and students involved.
  • Projects should increase engagement in at least one of the Foundation’s investment areas: STEM, health/wellness, art/music, and academic achievement.
  • Grant funds can be used to compensate experts who work with students (i.e. an artist-in-residence). Funds cannot be used to pay GAPS teachers or staff.
  • Grant amounts typically range from $5,000 to $20,000.
  • Proposals that incorporate matching funds or community resources will be looked upon favorably.
  • If awarded, a grant report including photos and purchase orders/receipts must be submitted by June 30. Big Impact Grant recipients may be invited to make a presentation to the APSF Board of Directors in May or June of their grant year.

Big Impact Grants Will Not Be Offered in 2026-27

Updates about the 2027-28 grant cycle will be posted later this year.
If you have questions, please email programs@albanypsf.org

Applicants will be notified of award decisions in late November 2025. If you have questions, email programs@albanypsf.org.

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