Finding funding for STEM projects in schools can be tricky, but it certainly can be a lot easier when you know some places to look! The following details some of the areas where you can source that funding for robotics kits, makers spaces or science incursions for your school.

These grants and funding sites are outside of the standard programmed funding that your school receives. Of course, this doesn’t cover all of the funding opportunities available however it’s a good start and we’ll add to the list as we find them!

National Science Week Grants

These are run by the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA) in partnership with Inspiring Australia. You’ll find contacts in each State who can help you on this page.

Applications are ongoing

Schools Plus

The Schools Plus website is a little like Kickstarter for schools. Through the Fundraise Yourself platform, you can post information about your project and its benefits and crowdfund your project through your community network. Plus, through the Smart Giving program, the Schools Plus team will help connect your school’s project to individuals, businesses and foundations who are passionate about supporting education. Find out if you are one of 4600 schools who are eligible!

Applications are ongoing.

NSW Education Grants

A variety of school and after-school grants are available on this page. They are updated constantly so it’s well worth bookmarking this page.

Applications are ongoing.

Victorian Grants

This hub allows you to search for current grants available

Applications are ongoing.

NSW Community Grants Hub

This is a hub for updated information on grants. It’s well worth bookmarking this page!

Applications are ongoing.

Regional Development Australia

There are a variety of community grants updated on this list.

Applications are ongoing.

Junior Landcare Grants

Junior Landcare grants help bring sustainability into classrooms across Australia to teach children how to care for their local environment.

Applications are ongoing.

Country Women’s Association Grants

These grants open on August 1 and close on September 30 each year. There are a variety of grants on offer.

Applications are ongoing.

NSW Ports

The NSW Ports 2025 Community Grants Program is open to Australian registered not-for-profit organisations, community groups, and schools operating within eligible suburbs

Real Insurance Grant

This Grant is offered annually to one school and/or school group/committee.

Applications are ongoing.

Variety Community Grants

These grants support communities to purchase equipment

Applications are ongoing.

Essential Energy Grants

These grants support communities in the network area for Essential Energy.

Applications are ongoing.

Queensland – Brighter Futures

Supported by Arrow Energy and designed to support organisations that are working to develop stronger Queensland communities in three areas:

• health and safety
• education
• environment.

You can submit a proposal that meets are based around small scale investments to meet community needs or get assistance for one-off, local events or projects.

First Australia

Create a robotics team for your school or library to compete in the First Lego League Competition. Supported by Google Australia, this grant will provide robotics resources, mentoring and support from First Lego League and fees covered for your first year in the competition.

Applications ongoing

Strengthening Rural Communities Larger Leverage Grants

Created by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), the Strengthening Rural Communities program is aimed at supporting small rural, regional and remote communities across Australia through funding that can support broad community needs. Schools will need to partner with non-profit community-based organisations

Applications are ongoing.

Happy teaching,

Ben Newsome