The Educator Initiative Grant (EIG) program, administered by the GAR Foundation, is an annual funding opportunity designed to support teacher-initiated, classroom-based projects in Summit County, Ohio. Since 2004, the program has provided financial support to educators seeking to enhance student learning through innovative instructional practices. The grants are specifically aimed at improving student achievement by aligning projects with Ohio’s Learning Standards, incorporating evidence-based teacher professional development, and supporting the district or school’s long-term educational vision.

The primary objective of the EIG program is to fund projects that contribute to student success, keeping learners on track for college and career readiness. The program encourages collaborative initiatives by allowing applications from teams of educators across public, private, parochial, or not-for-profit charter schools in Summit County. To ensure transparency and accessibility, the foundation offers application preparation workshops where interested educators can learn about the grant process, evaluation criteria, and submission guidelines.

Funding amounts vary based on the scale of the proposed project. Educators seeking to improve student achievement in a single classroom can apply for grants up to $5,000, while those implementing broader initiatives across multiple classrooms, grade levels, or departments can request up to $10,000. However, EIG funds may not be used for teacher stipends, furniture or capital improvements, student incentives, or standard school supplies unrelated to the curricular purpose of the project.

Applicants must follow a structured process that includes selecting a team leader, reviewing the evaluation rubric, obtaining principal and superintendent endorsements, and submitting a detailed project budget. The application process is designed to be clear and concise, particularly for first-time applicants. Applications must be submitted online using the designated budget template and endorsement form.

The application deadline for the 2025-2026 EIG program is Friday, February 21, 2025, by 5:00 PM. All submissions must adhere to the stated guidelines to be considered for funding. The review process will evaluate proposals based on their alignment with educational standards, impact on student learning, feasibility, and sustainability.

For additional support, applicants can review past funded projects to gain insights into successful proposals. Sample projects include initiatives related to outdoor learning, urban agriculture, and mindfulness-based curriculum development. Educators interested in learning more or attending a grant workshop can contact Program Manager Lucille Esposito via email or phone for further assistance.