BEST Grant Program
BEST Grant Program supports Colorado public schools with capital construction projects, from roof replacements to new buildings, to address health, safety, and security and create equitable learning environments.
Funder: Colorado Department of Education
Due Dates: November 23, 2026 (Intent to apply) | January 11, 2027 (Applications open) | March 1, 2027, 4 p.m. (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Competitive cash and lease-purchase grants with applicant-specific matching contributions
Summary: BEST funds capital construction projects that improve health, safety, and security in Colorado public schools.
Key Information: Only applicants that submit the required intent-to-apply notice may apply through GAINS.
Description
Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) is a competitive capital construction grant program administered by the Colorado Department of Education’s Capital Construction Unit. Established in 2008 under C.R.S. 22-43.7, it supports Colorado public school districts, charter schools, institute charter schools, boards of cooperative educational services (BOCES), and the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind. Its primary focus is resolving health, safety, and security issues and creating equitable educational environments where students and staff can thrive.
BEST supports projects ranging from roof and boiler replacements and safety and security upgrades to major renovations, new schools, and school replacements. The Capital Construction Assistance Board (CCAB) assesses facility needs and recommends prioritized projects, seeking equitable, efficient, and effective use of state capital construction funding.
