Applications open July 1 for all NKC Schools staff to apply for funding for the 26-27 school year.

Kahler Innovation Grant Overview

Applications are accepted and reviewed monthly July through November, or until available funds have been awarded.
Funding awards range between $500 - $3,000 based on the grant scope and impact.
We prioritize projects tied to district initiatives focused on:
- Experiential Learning
- Real World Learning
- Project Based Learning
- Portrait of a Graduate Skills & Competencies

Since 1996, 410 grants have been awarded totaling over $610,550 — all thanks to educators like you. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Questions? Contact foundation@nkcschools.org or (816) 321-5550.

2026-27 review and award schedule is as follow:

Applications submitted by Friday, August 28 will receive a response the week of September 14
Applications received by Friday, September 25 will receive a response the week of October 19
Applications received by Friday, October 30 will receive a response the week of November 16
Applications received by Friday, November 27 will receive a response the week of December 14

Kahler Innovation Grant Awards are presented on the 3rd Wednesday of each month beginning in September.

2026-27 Resources

Please review the Grant Guidebook to find information on the application/award process, funding priorities, and tips for writing a successful grant.
Applications are reviewed by members of the Education Foundation's Advisory Board of Directors. The Reviewer Scoring Guide is available to you for more information on how applications are scored.
The 2026 Application Form and the Grant Budget Form are available in PDF form for your reference.
All applications must be submitted through AwardSpring to be considered for funding.
Please note that the application and budget forms have been significantly updated for the 2026-27 requests, including specific questions for returning grantees.