Public education is one of the greatest legacies of our country, one that benefits children from every walk of life. For Keats, it was at public school that he received his greatest encouragement to pursue his vocation as an artist. And the public library was a haven that introduced him to the wonders of art history.

To offer a similar experience to new generations, the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation created a funding initiative called Minigrants, through which awards of $500 are given to public schools and public libraries for projects that foster creative expression, working together and interaction with a diverse community. They also represent an opportunity for educators, whose efforts are often inadequately funded or recognized, to create special activities outside the standard curriculum and make time to encourage their students.

The application is easy to fill out online. The challenge is to come up with a program that is innovative, imaginative and inspiring. Below you’ll find a video tutorial, and links for instructions, FAQs and the application form. Plus, a gallery of Minigrant programs that we think are outstanding!

 

Minigrant Application Video Tutorial

Hosted by Deborah Pope, Executive Director of the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation

 

Individual Topics

1. Why is there a Minigrant program? 1:18

2. Who’s eligible? :30

3. All across the country :18

4. The application :54

5. What happens to my contact information? :31

6. The guidelines 1:01

7. What else can go wrong? 2:38

8. The maximum amount 1:10

9. Why not fund books and equipment? 1:22

10. The deadline 1:14

11. The final report 2:02

12. You can create an inspiring program :59

 

 

 

 

Minigrant Application Form

 


Bring an innovative program to your community!