Since 2004, the Educator Initiative Grant (EIG) program has annually supported teacher-initiated, classroom-based projects in Summit County.
The application period for the 2026-2027 EIG program will open on Monday, December 1, 2025 and will close on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 5:00 pm.
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How To Apply
Are you a first time EIG applicant? New to grant writing? We know that educators are busy and are often juggling several responsibilities, so we've made this process as clear and concise as possible. Check out our simple step-by-step guide below to confidently navigate this process. You've got this!
Identify a Team Leader
Identify the educator who will serve as the primary contact for your team and school. Team leaders are not permitted to lead more than one project.
Read the Evaluation Criteria
The evaluation criteria will be used to assess your proposal. Use this to ensure your project aligns with the guidelines.
Download the Application Template
Preview the application questions so you can prepare for the questions in advance. Share them with your team!
Obtain the Necessary Signatures
Obtain both your Principal’s and Superintendent’s signatures on the endorsement form and attach it to your application when prompted.
Complete the Project Budget
Download the EIG Budget spreadsheet template provided to itemize and tally the total expenses for your project, and submit this form with your completed application. This is the only budget template that will be accepted with your application.
Apply Online
The 2026-2027 application period will open on December 1, 2025, with a deadline of 5:00 pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026. You can prepare for the next round of EIGs by downloading the Applicant’s Guide to better understand the process.
Eligibility
Teams of K-12 Summit County educators in public, private, parochial, or not-for-profit charter schools are eligible to apply.
Projects must:
- Help students meet or exceed Ohio’s Learning Standards.
- Incorporate evidence-based teacher professional development.
- Help teachers and students achieve and/or promote the district or school’s vision.
- Demonstrate support for keeping learners on track for college and career readiness, as demonstrated by the cradle-to-career journey.
EIG does not fund:
- Teacher stipends
- Furniture or capital improvements
- Incentives or rewards for students (pencils, pens, stickers, etc)
- Standard school supplies
- Any materials or supplies not connected to the curricular purpose of EIG (See Evaluation Criteria)
How Much Should I Request?
- Grants to improve achievement in one classroom: Up to $5,000
- Grants to improve achievement in two or more classrooms, grade levels, or departments: Up to $10,000
Grant Preparation Workshops
Workshops are conducted for interested educators to describe the application process, explain the decision criteria, and answer questions. Interested in attending a workshop? Contact EIG Liaison Karen Hodge at [email protected].
FAQs
Do I need experience in grant writing to write a successful EIG?
No. Many first-time grant writers are successful EIG applicants. GAR Foundation has made the process simple and guides you through it step-by-step. In addition, EIG Liaison Karen Hodge is here to help you.
Is the application complicated?
Not at all. It is an easy-to-follow document that asks you simple questions about the need you are seeing in your students and how you plan to address that need. You can preview the EIG application by clicking here.
How do I submit my application?
You will need to create an account on GAR's Grant Portal. Once the application period opens, you will be able to submit your application through that account.
What expenses are not allowed?
The EIG does not fund teacher stipends; capital improvements; incentives or rewards for students; t-shirts or other clothing; or standard school supplies. For more information about how EIG funds can be used, check out our Applicant’s Guide.
How will my application be evaluated?
Nine Summit County educators read through all of the applications and then, as a team, make recommendations on funding. They make those recommendations based on a set of evaluation criteria.
When will I hear whether or not my request was approved for funding?
While the Evaluation Team makes recommendations, final decisions about EIG funding are made by GAR Foundation’s Distribution Committee. Decisions are announced in May.
Who do I contact if I have questions or want help preparing my application?
Contact EIG Liaison Karen Hodge at [email protected].
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