Bee Grants

The Bee Grant Program, offered by the Whole Kids Foundation, supports K-12 schools and non-profits in enhancing or establishing bee programs with live bees. The Traditional Bee Grant provides up to $1,500 or equipment for new initiatives, while the Renewal Bee Grant offers $500 to previously funded projects. Eligible applicants must ensure strong support from their organization and have a knowledgeable beekeeper as a mentor. This initiative emphasizes bee education and conservation, fostering awareness among students.

NOTE:
Traditional Bee Grant and Renewal Bee Grant have different deadlines. See the website for details.The application is conducted online as a two-step process. Part I applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received and must be submitted no later than the pre-proposal deadline above. If selected to move on to the Main Application, Part II is due on the full proposal deadline.
Traditional Bee Grant
The Traditional Bee Grant allows for K-12 schools or non-profit organizations that serve any grades K-12 to start a new or enhance an existing bee program hosting live bees on their campus.
About the Program
A choice of a monetary or equipment grant intended to support schools in bringing live bees to their campus or grow their already existing educational hive program.
RENEWAL BEE GRANT
The Renewal Bee Grant allows for K-12 schools or non-profit organizations that have previously received a Bee Grant to receive support to grow their programs.
About the Program
A $500 monetary grant intended to boost or support existing educational bee programs. Applicant must have received a Traditional Bee Grant from Whole Kids in 2024 or before and completed the required Progress Report. Live bees are not required to apply for this grant.
Also included with grant award:

• One-on-one Program Consultation with The Bee Cause Project for program development, technical support, and beekeeper guidance (if applicable).

Educator Resource Pack to provide the strategies and tools needed to grow a strong Bee Program. This includes core compliant lessons, activities, distance learning experiences, Bee Program budgeting and planning tools, community engagement opportunities, and more.
Bee a Friend to Pollinators Class: an optional, asynchronous summer course from Clemson Online that helps educators bring pollinator conservation to life through engaging lessons and projects.

Eligibility

K-12 Schools or Non-Profit Organizations that serve at least 10 students in any grades K-12 in the U.S./CanadaApplicant must have not received a Traditional Bee Grant before. If they have, please review the eligibility for a Renewal Bee Grant.The grant award must be used to support bee education for students. The principal or executive director must be aware and supportive of the bee program.A knowledgeable beekeeper (or appropriate bee educator) must commit to help support and maintain the beehive as the “Bee Mentor.” There must be an individual at the school or organization who is the designated “Bee
Advocate”.