Outdoor offices, classrooms and study areas have increased a great deal over the last few years. Countless businesses, libraries, restaurants and other entities have been progressive in adopting renewable energy solutions. With the progressive response to natural disasters, the pandemic, and overall sustainability efforts, worldwide grant programs have been initiated for a wide variety of business types.
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National Grants
Captain Planet Foundation, Grants
This is currently closed but sign-up is available to receive Grant notifications.
The Captain Planet Foundation supports hands-on environmental projects that empower youth to become agents of change. Educators and nonprofits are encouraged to sign up for notifications to stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
CCDI Grant (Libraries)
Not Currently Accepting Applications or Renewals – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Connecting Communities Digital Initiative (CCDI) Grant combines libraries with technology to encourage digital programs for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. The program is open to US-based, non-profit libraries, archives, and museums. CCDI also supports a grant for Higher Education.
Chick-fil-A – True Inspiration Awards (Environmental Category)
Chick-fil-A’s True Inspiration Awards provide grants ranging from $30,000 to $350,000 to nonprofit organizations making a significant impact in their communities. Under the “Caring for our Planet” category, projects focused on sustainability, outdoor learning, or environmental stewardship—such as solar-powered charging stations, outdoor classrooms, or community clean energy initiatives—are encouraged to apply. Nonprofits can nominate themselves or be nominated by a local Chick-fil-A Owner-Operator.
For more information, Apply To True Inspiration Awards® Program | Chick-fil-A
EBSCO Solar Grant – (Libraries)
The EBSCO Solar Grant funds solar panel installations for libraries worldwide, supporting sustainable energy use. Applications are open for libraries seeking to implement solar solutions to lower energy costs and promote environmental responsibility. Total funding is $300,000, for more information click here.
IMLS Grant Programs (Museums and Libraries)
Applications open – Deadlines are March 13th, 2026 and April 10th, 2026
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) offers multiple grant programs that can support solar-related projects for libraries and museums across the United States. These grants range from general capacity-building efforts to innovative sustainability initiatives that incorporate solar energy into educational and public spaces. Eligible projects have included outdoor learning environments, solar-powered furniture, and renewable energy exhibits that engage the community. Below are several IMLS programs that have previously funded solar-focused initiatives. For information on the available grants by program or state, visit The Institute for Museum and Library Services.
Outdoor Learning Grants
There are tons of Government Programs and Funding for Outdoor Learning and Schoolyard Greening listed by state with awards ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 (and larger national options). While some older lists are dated, check these active resources for 2026 cycles:
Project Green Schools Outdoor Classroom Challenge 2026 – Up to $10,000 for outdoor learning spaces (applications due Jan 23, 2026).
Green Schoolyards America Grant Opportunities – Reference for greening/forest programs (many replicable annually).
KidsGardening Grant Opportunities – Ongoing garden/outdoor education funding.
Playground Grants
There are many available grants to help you enhance your playground. Some of those enhancements may include solar powered devices that add educational aspects to the playing experience while offering additional seating with ADA accessibility.
Find your state and see the current available grants in your area here: Grants For Playground Equipment, Solar Powered Playground Seating, Play & Park Structures
Casey’s Grant
Cash for Classrooms Grant Program
Applications Closed – Recipients to be Announced March–April 2026
All K-12 public and nonprofit private schools in the states of AR, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, ND, OH, OK, SD, TN, and WI are eligible. Grants will range from $3,000 to a maximum of $50,000 and must be used within 12 months of being awarded. Grants can be used for physical enhancements (including buildings, playgrounds, outdoor spaces), supplies/technology/materials, teacher professional development, and community engagement initiatives (e.g., field trips, volunteer programs). This makes it a great fit for adding sustainable features like Sunbolt solar charging stations to outdoor classrooms or playground areas to support learning and accessibility.
For more information and to check application status/updates, visit Casey’s Cash for Classrooms Grant Program.
BUILD Discretionary Grants (formerly RAISE)
Applications Open – Deadline February 24, 2026 (5:00 PM ET)
The U.S. Department of Transportation has published a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for at least $1.5 billion in FY 2026 funding through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) discretionary grant program (previously known as RAISE). This highly competitive program funds surface transportation infrastructure projects that will have a significant local or regional impact, with a strong emphasis on safety, environmental sustainability, quality of life, mobility and community connectivity, economic competitiveness, state of good repair, partnership/collaboration, and innovation.
Eligible projects can include roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports, active transportation facilities (bike/ped), and complete streets elements — making it an excellent opportunity for communities installing sustainable outdoor infrastructure such as solar-powered charging stations in public spaces, parks, transit hubs, or along trails and sidewalks.
For more information and to apply, visit BUILD Discretionary Grants | US Department of Transportation
USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
Applications accepted year-round or in quarterly competitions.
Provides grants (up to 50% of costs) and guaranteed loans for renewable energy systems (including solar) and energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers and rural small businesses/nonprofits (many outdoor/community projects) qualify. The funding is for hundreds of millions annually (multi-year NOFO for FY 2025-2027. This is ideal for installing Sunbolt solar charging in parks, schools, farms or nonprofits. For more information, visit USDA REAP.
Grants By State
Alabama
RC&D Grant
Applications Accepted Annually April 1 – June 30 (Next Cycle for FY 2027 Opens April 2026)
RC&D creates funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations and government units/sub-units across all 67 counties of Alabama. Funds are awarded under two categories: Education Fund Projects (must include an educational component, ideal for outdoor learning, environmental stewardship, or sustainability initiatives) and General Fund Projects (broader community enhancements). Award amounts vary based on project scope and local council.
This program supports projects that enhance human and natural resources to improve quality of life — including outdoor classrooms, conservation efforts, and community education. Past examples include securing $8,000 for an outdoor classroom at a sandstone barren site. Nonprofits installing sustainable features like Sunbolt solar charging stations (for device access in parks, schools, trails, or public outdoor spaces) can align well, especially under Education Fund if tied to learning or environmental education.
To apply or learn more, contact your local RC&D Council (find yours here) and submit via the portal. For the latest details and application portal Grants – Alabama RC&D Councils
Alabama Power Foundation Community Grants
Applications for the main community grants will reopen in early 2026, with specific cycles and deadlines now listed on the foundation’s site.
The Alabama Power Foundation offers community grants that focus on environmental stewardship, education, and community development, often supporting sustainability, outdoor projects, and initiatives that improve quality of life across Alabama. These grants are part of the foundation’s broader mission to elevate communities through funding in key areas, including Environmental Stewardship (which emphasizes preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable practices), Educational Advancement, Civic and Community Development, Arts and Cultural Enrichment, and Health and Human Services.
Other related programs include Students to Stewards (focused on environmental education and STEAM), Good Roots (for beautification, tree planting, and community enhancement that benefits the environment), and various education-focused grants that could tie into outdoor learning spaces.
This makes the foundation a strong potential fit for nonprofits, schools, or community groups installing sustainable features like Sunbolt solar charging stations in outdoor classrooms, parks, nature centers, or public spaces, especially if framed around environmental stewardship, community engagement, or educational outdoor initiatives that reduce energy costs and promote renewable use.
For the latest details, visit Alabama Power Foundation Grants or the main Power of Good site. Check back frequently as cycles open throughout the year, and sign up for updates if available on the site.
California
Sand Diego Outdoor Business Grant
The total amount currently available for Fiscal Year 2025 (ending June 30, 2025) is approximately $300,000. This grant program is periodically reviewed and updated based on available funding and participation levels.
This program is designed to support the efforts of outdoor dining and community gathering in public spaces. The grant rewards can reach up to $20,000 per recipient and the total available is $300,000. For more information, please visit Outdoor Business Grant for the City of San Diego.
Illinois
Outdoor Dining Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
This program is designed to provide restaurants located in low to moderate income areas with $5,000 to purchase outdoor furniture that will allow them to operate safely. The total amount available for this program is $2,000,000. For more information visit Outdoor Dining Grants for Chicago Restaurants.
Equitable Energy Future Grant Program
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) would be a suitable option. This program provides grants up to $1 million for projects focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency in underserved communities. Funds from this grant can be applied to solar equipment, planning, project development, and associated operational costs, making it a good match for installing solar tables that provide clean energy in public spaces.
The Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program might also be relevant if the solar table is part of a broader community-owned solar initiative. This program funds projects that promote community-based energy solutions with an annual budget of up to $8.5 million.
For further guidance and eligibility details, you can explore the DCEO’s grant opportunities click here.
Maryland
Solar Canopy and Dual Technology Grant Program
Applications Closed – Expected to Reopen in Fall 2025
The Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Grant provides grant funding to support the installation of solar systems that provide multiple uses for land and water. The grant may be used for Solar canopies, EV charging solutions, and other solar canopy needs. The Maryland Energy administration anticipates providing up $1.4 Million in grants to fund solar and sustainability efforts.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
Applications Open: July 4, 2025 – October 1, 2025
Administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the CDBG Program provides funding to non-entitlement counties and municipalities for projects that benefit low- and moderate-income residents. Eligible activities include infrastructure improvements, public facilities, and community revitalization efforts. Applications for the upcoming cycle open on July 4, 2025, with a submission deadline of October 1, 2025. Visit the Community Development Block Grant | Rockville, MD – Official Website for more information.
Massachusetts
Not Currently Accepting Applications or Renewals – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
ORLPP Grant
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grant Program (ORLPP) ranges from $300,000-$5,000,000 and can be used to acquire parkland, build a new park, create outdoor workspaces, enhance playgrounds or renovate an existing park. The grant is provided by the state of Massachusetts and supports communities lacking park recreation resources.
Stockbridge Library Historic Preservation Grant
Application Period: Spring 2025
The Stockbridge Library, Museum & Archives has been awarded $14,165 for historic preservation purposes, with funding approval anticipated in Spring 2025. While this grant focuses on preservation, libraries in Massachusetts may also explore opportunities for sustainability and solar projects through state programs.
Michigan
Great Lakes Energy People Fund Grant
Application Deadline: October 15, 2025
Available to nonprofit organizations within the Great Lakes Energy service area, this grant supports community projects, including outdoor education and sustainable development. Awards are typically issued twice per year. For more information, visit Great Lakes Energy People Fund.
Michigan Renewable Schools Program
Ongoing Grant
Administered by Energy Works Michigan, this program offers technical assistance and incentive funding to public, private, and charter K–12 schools for implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy measures, including solar photovoltaic systems. The program also provides educational resources to integrate energy topics into the classroom.
Milwaukie
Outdoor Seating Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The city of Milwaukie offered $1,000 grants to put towards future purchases that will enhance outdoor seating for local restaurants and small businesses. The goal of this grant was to help businesses adapt to COVID-19 restrictions set forth by the Oregon Health Authority. For more information you can visit the Milwaukie Outdoor Seating Grant Official Website.
Minnesota
Solar for Schools Program
Applications Open: Two Rounds in 2025
Minnesota’s Solar for Schools program offers grants to K–12 public schools, tribal contract schools, and institutions within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Grants can cover up to 70% of project costs for schools with lower tax capacities. In 2024, the state increased funding by $30 million and expanded the maximum system size to 1 megawatt. Schools must complete a readiness assessment before applying. For more information visit Solar for Minnesota Schools.
Nebraska
CPNRD Grants
If you’re in the state of Nebraska and interested in starting an Outdoor Classroom, check out Outdoor Nature Classroom Programs . They are offering up to $2,500 to put towards the expansion of an outdoor classroom for your school. They have two separate grant programs, Kearney Public Schools Foundation Fund and the Stick Creek Kids Child Development Center Fund. They have three separate grant programs: School Outdoor Classroom Grant, Community Outdoor Classroom Grant, and the Mini Classroom Grant.
New York
Reviving Rockland Restaurants Grant
If your business is in Rockland County (NY) and you have spent between $5,000 and $25,000 on outdoor dining equipment, you may be eligible for this grant. Recipients will have those past expenses reimbursed. Funding is also available of up to $25,000 for future expenses. Funding can be used for additional tables and equipment that provide shade during your dining experience. For more information please visit County of Rockland, New York Grants.
North Carolina
Outdoor Heritage Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
In North Carolina, Outdoor Heritage offers a NC Schools Go Outside grant that offers up to $15,000 for on-campus learning centers/structures. This grant can include the purchase of a Sunbolt Solar Workstation or multiple Sunbolt Solar Stand-up Charging Stations to help take your outdoor classroom to the next level by offering solar powered laptop and other mobile device charging that can accompany existing seating or provide additional seating. For more information visit Grants | Outdoor Heritage Advisory Council.
GO Grant Program
Ongoing Grant
North Carolina’s GO Grant provides funding for youth outdoor engagement projects, offering up to $5,000 for field trips, $15,000 for outdoor learning structures, and $20,000 for larger facilities. While primarily focused on enhancing outdoor experiences, grants could potentially support solar educational projects if they promote environmental learning.
For more details, visit the GO Grant Program.
Placemaking Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Placemaking Grant program is a community building initiative for the City of Charlotte to create and enhance community vibrancy, safety, and identity by transforming unused or underutilized spaces. The total amount awarded will be $125,000. Awarded grants will be in the range of $1000 and $25,000. For more information visit Placemaking Grant (charlottenc.gov).
Oregon
Gray Family Foundation Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications or Renewals – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Gray Family Foundation offers an Environmental Education Grant to help communities around the state of Oregon expand their outdoor learning capabilities. This grant awards $5,000-$25,000 to schools and organizations with the interest of offering outdoor learning spaces and outdoor classrooms to their school districts.
The goal of this program is to offer an innovative way to help their state push through the effects of the pandemic by investing in ways to reduce risk to students and educators, while increasing educational options and offering alternative learning solutions. This outdoor learning grant can also be used for playgrounds, parks, or natural areas. For more information contact Program Officer, Nell Tessman, at ntessman@grayff.org.
Pennsylvania
Environmental Education Grants
Ongoing Grant
Each year, Pennsylvania invests in its schools, colleges and universities, county conservation districts, nonprofit organizations and businesses to improve environmental literacy among youth and adults.
Grant awards range between $5,001 up to $30,000. For this grant and other Pennsylvania Sustainability Grants please visit PA DEP Grants, Loans, and Rebates.
PPL Major Grants
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
PPL Empowering Educators Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications or Renewals – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
This PPL Grant is awarded annually for the empowerment of educators that bring innovative ideas to the classroom that sparks creativity in their students. The program is designed to help K-12 teachers enhance the classroom experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Award amounts vary up to $50,000, to apply please visit here and for more information, visit the PPL Website.
Solar for Schools Grant Program
Accepting Applications November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
This program provides funding for public schools to install solar energy systems, aiming to reduce utility costs and promote renewable energy education. Schools can use this funding to install rooftop panels or solar learning stations like Sunbolt’s workstations. For more information, visit PA DCED Solar for Schools
Rhode Island
Rhode Island Foundation Community Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
This grant will be available for non-profit organizations in the state of Rhode Island. The program will provide funds up to $10,000 for community-making efforts that will enhance the role of shared public spaces as community anchors. For more information about the criteria and considerations for this grant please visit RI Foundation | Community Grants.
Tennessee
TOP Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications or Renewals – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Tennessee State Library will be providing grant opportunities to public libraries all across the state. The Training Opportunities for the Public (TOP) Grant will be available to fund:
- Training
- Hotspots
- Internal Connections
- Digital Navigators pilot project
Applications have been closed for this grant but funds will be distributed until June 30, 2023 with an awarded amount of up to $20,000. Population will determine how much the library can qualify for. If your library has already applied for this grant, a great way to utilize these funds to its fullest potential is to purchase a hotspot ready solar charging table from Sunbolt. For more information on this grant please visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.
2025 Technology Grant
Grant will run from October 2024 to April 30, 2025
The Tennessee State Library will be providing grant opportunities to public libraries all across the state for their technology needs. The 2024 Technology Grant is available for public libraries to replace or purchase technology that can be used by staff or the public. Grants will require a 50% local match. Grant awards are in the amount of up to $20,000.
Vermont
RTP Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
If you are in the state of Vermont and interested in adding Sunbolt’s Sprint Stand-up Solar Charging Station to trails, parks or hiking areas, the Recreational Trails Program grant may be the one for you. The grant is eligible for municipalities, non-profit organizations, and government facilities.
VOREC Community Grant
Not Currently Accepting Applications, No Confirmation on Renewal – Bookmark this Page for Future Updates
The Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) and the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) will be awarding up to $6 million to communities around the state to:
- Grow outdoor recreation-related businesses.
- Increase participation in outdoor recreation activities among all demographics.
- Strengthen the quality and extent of outdoor recreation resources.
- Increase stewardship of outdoor recreation resources and environmental quality.
- Promote and enjoy the health and wellness benefits of outdoor recreation.
For more information visit VOREC Community Grant Program.
Wisconsin
RENEW Grant – Solar for Good Initiative
Fall 2025 Application Period: September 1 – October 1, 2025
RENEW Wisconsin’s Solar for Good program, in partnership with the Couillard Solar Foundation, offers grants to nonprofit organizations and houses of worship in Wisconsin to support the installation of solar energy systems. The program provides:
- Solar Panels: Up to 50% of the panels needed for the project, with a maximum of 75 panels for systems under 100 kW (approximately $25,000 value) and up to 150 panels for systems 100 kW and larger (approximately $50,000 value).
- Solar Canopy Grants: Base grants of $6,000 for the first 20 kW, with an additional $3,000 for each additional 10 kW, supporting the installation of solar canopies.
For more information visit Solar for Good – RENEW Wisconsin.
You may qualify for this program if you have an interest in adding amenities such as trail lighting, kiosks, signage, or any structure that can be placed along the trail. States with the ability to use 5% of their annual budget for educational projects qualify for amenities that are also environmental, multifunctional and/or ADA accessible.
To see if your state qualifies and for additional information, visit the Recreational Trails Program Guidance Page. Applicants may apply for up to $50,000 but must be willing to match a minimum of 20% of the project’s cost.
These are just a few of the available grant sources for funding your outdoor needs. Most of the grants can help you purchase at least one of Sunbolt’s Solar charging stations. The durability and usability of the workstations will last many years, turning the grant award into a very good investment!
As previously mentioned, Sunbolt is continuously researching grants for our community and customers, and welcome you to reach out anytime for more information. Contact the Sunbolt Team.
