Synopsis: Explore a curated selection of authentic grants and funding avenues, ranging from federal initiatives and private foundations to national award programs—perfect for educators and organizations looking to expand impact, research, or access through innovative projects.
1. O’Donnell Trust Fund Scholarships (New Zealand)
Synopsis: Financial awards ranging from NZD $5,000 to $10,000 annually (renewable for up to 3 years) to support tuition, living, and study-related costs in music, ballet, or singing.
Eligibility: Must be New Zealand-born or naturalised, reside within 30 km of The Square in Palmerston North, and demonstrate outstanding performing arts talent. Applicants must plan to begin at least a one-year program (in NZ or overseas) within 12 months.
Deadline: 30 September 2025
More Info: Visit Public Trust’s SmartyGrants portal
2. Spencer Foundation – Large Research Grants (Education Research)
Synopsis: Supports significant education research projects with grants ranging in size (based on proposal).
Eligibility: Researchers invited to submit full proposals after pre-proposal stage. Indicates substantial scholarly work.
Deadline: Full proposals due (by invitation only) on 30 September 2025 (Noon CDT)
More Info: Spencer Foundation Large Research Grant page
3. ING Unsung Heroes (U.S. Educators)
Synopsis: Awards $2,000 to 100 K–12 U.S. educators for innovative classroom projects; top three finalists receive additional $25,000, $10,000, and $5,000 respectively.
Eligibility: Full-time teachers, principals, paraprofessionals, or classified staff in accredited U.S. public or private schools. Previous recipients are not eligible.
Deadline: Postmarked by 30 April annually
More Info: ING Unsung Heroes program page
4. William Georgetti Scholarship (New Zealand Postgraduate)
Synopsis: One of New Zealand’s most prestigious postgraduate scholarships—up to NZD $20,000/year for Master’s and $30,000/year for Doctoral study (up to $45,000/year for study overseas), renewable up to three years.
Eligibility: Must have lived in New Zealand for 5+ years, be of good character and health, and hold a university-equivalent degree. Open to any discipline or institution.
Deadline: Not specified—researchers may need to consult Universities New Zealand for current cycle dates.
More Info: William Georgetti Scholarship page
5. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarships (U.S.)
Synopsis: Generous scholarships to gifted low-income students from middle school through graduate studies. Awards include up to $40,000/year for undergraduate and up to $50,000/year for graduate students, plus institutional-level grants to support equity.
Eligibility: High-achieving students with financial need (U.S.-based), plus programs supporting K–12 and college access.
Deadline: Varies by program; check each specific scholarship’s schedule.
More Info: Jack Kent Cooke Foundation scholarships page
6. Fulbright Program (U.S. & International)
Synopsis: Prestigious grants for U.S. and international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research abroad, including specialized teacher exchange and development programs. Offers ~8,000 grants annually.
Eligibility: Depends on program: typically high academic achievement, strong project proposals, and alignment with Fulbright’s mission. Open across disciplines.
Deadline: Varies by country and program—usually during the spring application cycle.
More Info: Fulbright Program overview page
7. Foundation for Excellence (India)
Synopsis: Scholarships to academically gifted, financially underprivileged students in India pursuing higher education in engineering, medicine, pharmacy, or law. Has awarded >81,000 scholarships since 1994.
Eligibility: Indian students with demonstrated need and high academic merit, admitted to quality related programs.
Deadline: Applied annually; timeline varies—applicants should check the FFE official site.
More Info: Foundation for Excellence page
Last modified: August 15, 2025
