Learning by Design: K-8 Grant Program

The AIA, with support from the Architects Foundation, in partnership with Armstrong World Industries Foundation is pleased to offer grants in support of K-8 architecture and design education programs. All AIA Components who offer or are planning to offer K-8 programming are eligible to apply.

The paramount goal of your program should be to provide educational opportunities and skills in architecture design to those students who otherwise would not be exposed to architecture or architects. The program should have a target student audience of those who are under served and/or in need. Clear evidence of partnerships which can include firms, higher education architecture departments, schools, community-based organizations, and youth serving nonprofits are highly favorable.

Grants will be reviewed by a jury and will be awarded up to $5,000 depending on program size, budget needs, and scope of project. A letter of award will be sent to the AIA Component point of contact.

Evaluation Criteria

• Reach under-served students
• Focus on architecture and/or design thinking
• Improve, advance, and enrich student learning
• Implementation using grant funds must be ompleted by December 31, 2018
• Demonstrate support from additional sources including grants and sponsors

This grant will not support

• School laboratory supplies or equipment for general school use
• Media equipment (computers, digital cameras, projectors, white boards, DVD players)
• Furniture (display/book cases, carts)
• Admission fees, stipends for conferences, workshops, competitions
• Incentives, meals, refreshments
• Subscriptions

Grants can be used for, but are not limited to, project supplies, printing, books, facility rental, and transportation.