Schools around the world, whether K-12 or universities, are implementing cutting edge technology and makerspaces to equip students with 21st century design and problem solving skills. 3D printing is now one of the most popular and effective ways to drive classroom excitement, and incorporating the tech has gotten even easier as more 3D printing lesson plans are published to Thingiverse Education.

It’s no mystery that getting approval and funding for next-generation makerspaces can be tough, especially when working with limited education budgets. Education grants are valuable resources for gathering the funding necessary to provide students access to 3D printers, though searching to find which one is right for you can be time consuming. To make things easier, MakerBot developed a Grant Resource Guide to help you find and apply for relevant grants.

Check out the full Grant Resource Guide!

Here are some examples of how a well organized grant list can help you plan your applications and find what grants best fit your institution.

Educators of America Grant: Grants are awarded to a teacher that is in need of an effective technological tool that will assist in bettering student achievement.
Applications are reviewed quarterly (January, April, July, October).

First Energy STEM Classroom Grant: Grants are awarded to programs that support classroom projects and teacher professional-development initiatives focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Application period opens summer and closes late September.
Hearst Foundation: Grants are awarded to early childhood, K-12 education, and
professional development programs (but has a large focus on higher
education) preparing students to thrive in global society.
Applications are accepted year round and are reviewed within 4-6 weeks.

In addition to the Grant Resource Guide, be sure to check out Thingiverse Education, the world’s largest collection of 3D printing curriculum.

Repost from Makerbot