Rockford Education Foundation (REF) School Year & Student Grants
The Rockford Education Foundation's mission is to provide funding for educational opportunities, both basic and innovative, in the Rockford community. REF does this by supporting educational programs and services within the geographic boundaries of the Rockford Public Schools.
2023-24 Grant Deadlines:
Student Grants (up to $500)
Monday, April 15, 5pm
Student Grant requests must be written by the student(s). Requests clearly conceived by or written by a parent, teacher, or administrator will generally not be considered.
Small Grants (up to $1,000) - Grant Cycle Closed
- Monday, September 18, 5pm
- Monday, January 29, 5pm
Large Grants ($1,001 - $15,000) - Grant Cycle Closed
- Monday, October 9, 5pm
- Videos due by October 13
- Large Grant Review Meeting - October 23, 5-9pm
- Monday, January 29, 5pm
- Videos due by February 2
- Large Grant Review Meeting - February 26, 5-9pm
In addition to the online application, Large Grant applications require a 5-10 minute video submission providing an overview and details of the grant request. Videos may be submitted with the grant application or emailed to ref@rockfordschools.org
We highly recommend your participation in the REF Large Grant Review Meeting to address any questions or inquiries regarding your grant application. Following the submission of your Large Grant application, you will receive communication to coordinate a time for your attendance at the review meeting.