MADISON, Wis.–Credit union organizations can now apply for a Biz Kid$ Financial Education Grant from the National Credit Union Foundation through March 31.
The Foundation said it is seeking to distribute up to $100,000 in grant funds to credit union organizations as part of the effort.
The application can be found here.
“We encourage credit unions to apply for a Biz Kid$ Financial Education Grant to improve youth financial literacy through the award-winning Biz Kid$ program,” said Danielle Brown, the Foundation’s director of development and donor relations. “This is the fourth year we are offering grants and thus far the results have been impactful and inspiring. All of the previous grantees offer a variety of engaging ways to use Biz Kid$ in your community.”
The Foundation noted it has been highlighting Biz Kid$ grantees through a series of articles over the past two years that have been leveraging Biz Kid$ and its curriculum to build students financial literacy and economic education skills. Some examples include:
- CASE Credit Union partnered with the YMCA to host a week-long summer camp using Biz Kid$ concepts and curriculum to enhance youth financial literacy in their community.
- Maps Credit Union partnered with Western Oregon University to incorporate Biz Kid$ into the College of Education’s curriculum.
- The Cornerstone Credit Union Foundation improved the financial literacy skills of both students and educators through their collaborative Biz Kid$ pilot program around entrepreneurship.
What the Grants Fund
Biz Kid$ Financial Education Grants may be used to fund innovative programs that improve the financial education of youth through the use of the Biz Kid$ program, according to the Foundation. Projects may engage teachers, students, education leaders, local PBS stations, or community stakeholders through events, activities, and/or curriculum distribution. Each project should create innovative and engaging activities incorporating Biz Kid$ materials. Funds may not be used as a cash donation to a third party.
The number one goal of the Biz Kid$ financial literacy initiative is to teach kids from upper elementary through high school to understand and incorporate the skills they need to successfully manage their financial lives. One goal of the Foundation’s Biz Kid$ Financial Education Grants is to extend the reach of the series beyond broadcast into the community.
Questions about Biz Kid$ or the grant process can be directed to Danielle Brown at (608) 556-2406 or via e-mail at dbrown@ncuf.coop.