Career Catalyst Grant

Career Catalyst Grant

Funder: Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation (administered through Consortium of Florida Education Foundations)

Award Amount: $100,000

Geographic Scope: Florida

Program Overview

A competitive grant supporting innovative career pathway programs in Florida's high-demand fields. The grant funds comprehensive approaches to creating opportunities, particularly in rural communities.

Focus Areas

• Career pathways and career exploration
• High-demand fields (examples: agriculture, agri-technology, horticulture)
• Programs serving underserved student populations
• Public-private partnerships
• Community engagement and support

Eligible Applicants

• Public education foundations
• K-12 school districts and their foundations

Recent Award Examples

• Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation (2026): $100,000 for "Growing Laurel Hill" agricultural program serving 150 students in rural Okaloosa County (69% qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch)
• Public Education Foundation of Marion County (2026): $100,000 for teacher development program

What Makes Strong Applications

• Comprehensive, innovative approach to career pathways
• Clear community support and public-private partnerships
• Focus on underserved communities
• Measurable student outcomes
• Alignment with state workforce needs

Contact Information

• Phone: 352.338.0250
• Email: info@cfef.net
• Address: P.O. Box 494266, Port Charlotte, FL 33949