Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Grant Program

Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Smidt Foundation
Last Updated: March 22, 2026

Summary

The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Grant Program, initiated by Eric Smidt through The Smidt Foundation, supports high school students in skilled trades education. This initiative facilitates pathways to graduation and fosters opportunities for meaningful employment. Each year, it awards $1.5 million in cash prizes to 25 exceptional U.S. public high school skilled trades teachers, enhancing support and investment in trades education. This program is a vital resource for schools aiming to improve their vocational training.

Overview

Background Harbor Freight Tools for Schools was established by Harbor Freight Tools owner and founder Eric Smidt and is a program of The Smidt Foundation. High school students with access to high quality skilled trades education have pathways to graduation, opportunity, good jobs and a workforce our country needs. With a deep respect for the dignity of these fields and for the intelligence and creativity of people who work with their hands, Harbor Freight Tools for Schools aims to drive increased understanding, support and investment in skilled trades education in U.S. public schools. Learn more about the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence – which awards $1.5 million in cash prizes to 25 outstanding U.S. public high school skilled trades teachers and their programs each year – and about Harbor Freight Tools for Schools research and grantmaking on their website. Harbor Freight Tools is a major supporter of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools program.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Harbor Freight Tools is proud to support nonprofit organizations in the following areas:K-12 Public EducationVeteransFire & Police DepartmentsPlease note that we only consider nonprofit organizations that have been in operation for more than a year and maintain 501(c)3 status.

Ineligibility

Religiously-Affiliated Institutions, Groups, and EventsHealthcare causesPolitical, athletic, or social organizationsIndividuals