Agriculture education prepares students for successful careers in the science, business, and technology of plant and animal production, and the environmental and natural resources systems.
ABOUT THE MARVIN MEYERS AGRICULTURE GRANT
The late Marvin Meyers was a pioneering water conservationist and in 1998, he established the Meyers Water Bank and Wildlife Project in Mendota, an innovative water-banking system that draws an array of wildlife. The Project developed into an educational program for children of all ages to learn about the importance of water and wildlife to the Central Valley. Marvin valued agriculture education and generously funded school field trips for Fresno County schools that focus on native plant and wetland restoration. He provided funding for the docent program organized by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, Scout Island Educational Center. Marvin was also a valued supporter of career technical education and philanthropy partner of the Foundation. This grant honors his legacy of expanding access to quality agriculture education programs for Fresno County students.
This grant aims to support schools working to enhance the agriculture education experience for students. One grant in the amount of $2,500 will be awarded through a competitive grant process. Proposals will be accepted for programs or projects that focus on:
- developing students who are college and career ready through agricultural education,
- providing resources for innovative hands-on teaching of 21st century relevant curriculum,
- improving sustainable program facilities, equipment and laboratories, and
- engaging students through experiential learning and leadership development.
IMPORTANT DATES
- March 5, 2025: Online Grant Application System will open for submissions.
- April 14, 2025, 3:00 p.m.: Deadline to submit grant proposals.
- April 28, 2025: Grant recipient selected for the 2025-2026 school year.
- June 1, 2026: Closing grant report due.
Eligible Applicants
The Marvin Meyers Agriculture Education Grant Program is open to Fresno County public high schools with existing agriculture education programs/pathways.
Project Duration
Program/project is funded for one school year, with a final report due by June 1. Recipients must show sustainability to ensure funds will have the largest positive impact possible on student success.
Eligible Expenses
Funds may be used for expenses specific to the project:
- Materials and supplies specific to the project including research supplies, education and outreach materials, printing, software, etc.
- Equipment that is necessary for, and unique to, the funded project. Equipment with general uses are not eligible.
Advanced Planning
You will submit your proposal online at: fcoefoundation.org/ageducation. Please prepare your proposal well in advance of the deadline. Work on the budget ahead of time and verify amounts as you go. Consider the time it takes to prepare required documents to be uploaded to the proposal. All required documents must be included with your online proposal by the deadline; incomplete proposals will not be reviewed.
Online Application Requirements
- Project Summary
- Project Goals and Objectives
- Expected Outcomes
- Detailed Project Budget
- Number of students impacted
- Statement of sustainability
- Project timeline
- Recognition
- Principal’s Endorsement Letter
- Additional Information