Micro-grants
Could this grant be for you?
If you’ve made it to this page and you’re thinking about applying, we want you to know something: don’t talk yourself out of it. Just apply.
Before you apply
Here’s a quick check to help you decide if this grant might be right for you. It’s not a test, and you don’t need to have everything figured out.
This grant might be for you if:
- You’re currently in grades 7 through 12.
- You attend school in Orange County, or you’re homeschooled or part of an alternative education program based in Orange County.
- There’s something you want to learn, try, accomplish, or explore, but the cost is getting in the way.
Maybe it’s a class you want to take. A certification exam. Tools for a trade program. Travel to a competition you qualified for. Or something else that could help you move forward.
If you’re not sure your idea fits, apply anyway. We’d rather hear your story than have you decide for us.
What about grades?
Your GPA isn’t scored, and it doesn’t determine whether you’re selected.
We mention a 2.0 GPA as a general guide for academic good standing, not an automatic cutoff. If your GPA is lower, tell us a little about what’s been happening. We want to understand your circumstances, not just see a number.
We fund the moment, not the résumé.
What can a grant help pay for?
Grants can help cover things like:
- Classes, courses, and certification fees
- Books, supplies, and learning materials
- Trade programs, tools, and exam fees
- Wellness or personal development programs connected to a goal you’re working toward
- Travel to a competition, conference, or educational program
Don’t see your idea listed? That doesn’t automatically mean it won’t qualify.
How much are the grants?
Each round, Uncharted Future awards 4 grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 each.
Grants are awarded four times a year.
Winter Grants
Applications close: December 17, 2026
Grants awarded by: January 29, 2027
You can submit one application per round. If you’re not selected this time, you’re welcome to apply again in a future round.
You can always find the latest dates at unchartedfuture.org/grants.
Will I need a parent or guardian?
If you’re selected as a finalist, a parent or guardian will be asked to confirm that you’re participating and that the grant funds will be used for the purpose described in your application.
If involving a parent or guardian is difficult, tell us in your application. We’ll work through it with you.
If you’re selected as a finalist, you’ll also provide a transcript and one letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or mentor.
One last thing...
You don’t need a perfect GPA, a polished résumé, or a perfectly mapped-out future.
You just need something worth taking a chance on.
So if you’re wondering whether you should apply, we hope you do.
Questions? Reach us anytime at sheets@unchartedfuture.org.