Application period now open for EAST Initiative grant funding

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – On Wednesday, the EAST Initiative announced the opening of the 2025-2026 EAST recruiting season for consideration in awarding the Department of Secondary Education/Arkansas Department of Education’s EAST Grant.

Funding is available for more than 10 new EAST programs for the 2025-26 school year. Funding from the grant will cover technology needed to install a full EAST classroom, and will cover some educator professional development costs that is required in the curriculum.

“EAST is excited to continue expanding our network and to continue empowering students to identify and address challenges beyond the classroom,” EAST Chief Executive Officer Matt Dozier said. “When students are given the chance to transform their innovative ideas into real‐world solutions, they are better equipped for success in their communities.”

Applications for the first round of funding will be accepted through close of business on Friday, December 13.

All Arkansas public or charter schools are eligible to receive grant funding. Districts considering implementation of EAST as part of their curriculum for the next school year should fill out the form found here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.