Only public K–12 school districts in rural Colorado are eligible. Applications must be submitted jointly by
the Superintendent and a Lead Teacher. We no longer fund BOCES.

Up to $75,000 over three years:

• Year 1: up to $30,000
• Year 2: up to $25,000
• Year 3: up to $20,000

We are seeking teacher-driven, district-supported proposals with bold, strategic ideas focused on
supporting the whole student. Proposals must reflect local needs and sustainable impact.

Proposals should align with one or more of the following focus areas:

• Career Exploration & Workforce Pathways: Create hands-on career-connected learning aligned with local industries, helping students see a future in their communities.
• Early Literacy: Strengthen reading instruction and family engagement in literacy, ensuring all students build strong foundations in the early grades.
• Equitable Academic Access: Increase opportunities for rural students to participate in advanced coursework, concurrent enrollment, and inclusive learning experiences.
• Family & Community Partnerships: Foster collaboration with families and local partners to boost student attendance, engagement, and success.
• STEAM Education & Creative Expression: Expand access to integrated science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics learning experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking, and student identity through hands-on, interdisciplinary exploration.
• Student Mental Health & Belonging: Expand mental health supports, social-emotional learning (SEL), and relationship-building practices.

We do not fund:

• General operating costs (e.g., absolulety NO salaries, building maintenance, transportation)
• Trips for a small group of students
• BOCES or other Non-profits
• Capital improvements (e.g., buildings, facilities)
• Scholarships
• Fees for outside consultants

November 20, 2026 at 8pm MT

• Grants Announced: February 1, 2027
• Grant Disbursement: No later than May 1, 2027

Yes. If selected:

• Superintendents and Lead Teachers must attend the Chinese New Year Gala on February 6,
  2027, in Denver (at NYF’s expense).
• Participate in two virtual cohort calls per year to reflect, share progress, and collaborate with
  peers

The Nathan Yip Foundation anticipates investing in 5–7 rural Colorado school districts as part of each new Rural Innovation Network cohort, supporting locally driven initiatives that expand opportunities for students.

We’re looking for proposals that are:

• Bold and visionary, yet practical—innovative ideas that can be successfully implemented in rural schools.

• Student-centered—focused on meaningful academic, social, and emotional outcomes for every student.

• Educator-led and district-supported—driven by teachers closest to the students, with district leadership providing structure, guidance, and sustainability.

• Aligned with district priorities—based on or supporting the district’s strategic plan to ensure coherence and long-term impact.

• Rooted in local needs and opportunities—responsive to the unique challenges and strengths of each community.

• Strategically sustainable—designed as a multi-year initiative with a clear through-line across all three years, building lasting impact and continuity.