AMD's K-12 initiatives target programs that increase student interest and/or proficiency in literacy, math, science, and computer technology. Because great teachers are the key to successful learning, AMD also funds programs aimed at developing and supporting effective classroom instruction. Applications are due twice a year: May 1 and Dec. 1. Funding decisions are communicated six months after application deadline.

AOL Time Warner Foundation Grants

The AOL Time Warner Foundation supports technology-related projects in four major areas of priority: Equipping Kids for the 21st Century, Extending Internet Benefits to All, Engaging Communities in the Arts, and Empowering Citizens and Civic Participation. Rather than simply providing grant monies, the foundation prefers to enter into sustainable, strategic partnerships with organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to pioneering innovative ways of meeting these priorities. As a general rule, the foundation does not fund unsolicited proposals except in very special circumstances. Proposals are reviewed throughout the year, and the foundation responds to requests within 8 to 12 weeks. Contact: (800) 818-1066, AOLTWFoundation@aol.com

AT&T Foundation Grants

The AT&T Foundation awards grants to education projects that focus on improving the quality of teaching and learning through the effective use of technology; developing workforce skills for the information technology industry; and advancing diversity in education and the workplace, especially in the fields of science, math, engineering, and technology. Accredited public and private elementary and secondary schools, accredited public and private two- and four-year institutions of higher education, and educational Non-profit organizations are eligible for consideration. AT&T funds are typically distributed through invitational programs or through projects that it proactively develops with nonprofit organizations. Unsolicited applications are reviewed, but rarely are supported. Those who wish to submit an unsolicited proposal should send a brief letter of introduction and description of their organization and project to: Secretary, AT&T Foundation, 32 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10013.  

Computers for Learning 

Through its Computers for Learning program, the federal government has placed hundreds of thousands of surplus computers in schools across the country on a needs-first basis. Schools register and request equipment on the Computers for Learning web site, and federal agencies match their surplus equipment to schools with those needs. Most, but not all, of the available computers are Windows-based PCs rather than computers made by Apple. Most of the donated machines are older models-but as the government continues to upgrade its computer systems, the number of surplus Pentium computers will sharply increase. Computers and equipment are not refurbished by the government before being shipped to schools, nor are they covered by warranty. Contact: (202) 501-3846 

Corning Foundation Grants

The Corning Inc. Foundation, established in 1952, develops and administers projects in support of educational, cultural, and community organizations. Over the years, the foundation has contributed more than $83 million through its grant programs. Each year, the foundation fulfills approximately 225 grants totaling some $2.25 million. Corning's areas of involvement have included community service programs for students, curriculum enrichment, student scholarships, facility improvement, and instructional technology projects for the classroom. The foundation also supports youth centers, YMCAs, and local chapters of Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. All requests for support must be made in writing.

HP U.S. Grants Program

The HP U.S. Grants Program, from Hewlett-Packard Co., supports education and electronic inclusion programs and partnerships that are national or regional in scope. The majority of HP's education grants benefit low-income and ethnically diverse student populations across the United States. The grants focus on partnerships and programs that have a positive impact on students from kindergarten to career and that help create links and collaboration among all levels of education-K-12, community colleges, and universities-and the communities they serve. While HP does not fund programs from unsolicited proposals, the company does offer a wide variety of strategic grant initiatives each year that are worth looking into.  Contact:

Merrill Lynch Foundation Grants

In 2000, Merrill Lynch adopted children and youth as its global cause for 2000 to 2005. The foundation supports programs that meet the educational needs and interests of underserved children and youth, and it gives priority to specific programs and projects that are innovative, sustainable, easily expanded from a local to a global perspective, and have a measurable impact. Technology skills in particular were cited by the foundation as one of several elements a project can address. The Merrill Lynch Foundation gives priority to grant requests from New York City and national organizations that reflect its focus, but the foundation does consider a small number of unsolicited requests from nonprofit organizations, including school districts. All requests outside of New York City should be submitted to the branch managers of local offices. When making a grant decision, the foundation considers other type of support an organization already might be receiving (e.g., matching gifts, United Way funds, etc.).