The Learning Technology Center’s Mini-Grant Program aims to promote technology and digital learning advancements in K-12 school districts across Illinois. With grants of up to $1,000, this initiative supports projects that improve teaching and learning outcomes for both students and staff through innovative use of technology. The program is funded by proceeds from the LTC Gives Golf Outing, demonstrating community support for enhancing educational experiences. Applications are being accepted from October 1, 2024, through October 31, 2024, and a total of $3,000 will be distributed, including a designated grant for a participant from the Golf Outing.

The grant supports projects in three main areas: technology innovations that enhance teaching and learning, digital learning initiatives, and professional learning related to technology that improves staff development and instructional practices. Applicants must be employees of public, private, or parochial PK-12 school districts, ensuring the program targets those directly involved in education. Sponsors may nominate districts for consideration, though they are not eligible to receive the grants themselves. Multiple applications are permitted from a district, but only one project per applicant will be funded.

Grant recipients will be selected by a committee based on the merits of their proposals, with winners announced prior to the Thursday keynote at the Illinois Education and Technology Conference. Funding is distributed on a reimbursement basis, requiring awardees to first purchase the necessary items for their projects and then submit proof of purchase to receive the grant funds. All purchases must be completed, and reimbursements claimed by June 1, 2025.

Awardees are also required to share the results of their projects with the broader educational community, either through presentations at a future LTC event or by submitting a digital summary such as a blog post or webinar. This requirement ensures that the knowledge and innovations generated through the grants can benefit a wider audience.

The grant program adheres to specific guidelines: awards are non-transferable, LTC employees are not eligible, and any policies specific to the applicant’s school district will take precedence in case of conflicts with the grant's guidelines. For additional information, applicants can contact the LTC support team at support@ltcillinois.org.

This Mini-Grant Program offers a valuable opportunity for educators to implement technology-driven solutions and share best practices, thus driving digital learning and professional growth across Illinois schools.