[Jack Kent Cooke Foundation](https://www.jkcf.org)

June 2026

Award sizes vary by initiative; past grants range from $500,000 to over $12 million across multi-year programs.

Supports programs and research expanding educational opportunities for high-achieving, low-income students through partnerships and targeted grants.

Typically funds only a limited number of nonprofit organizations; rarely funds unsolicited proposals.

--- ## Description The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation's College Access and Excellence initiative aims to expand educational opportunities for exceptionally promising students with financial need across the United States. The Foundation partners with educational leaders and organizations to advance access and success for high-achieving, low-income students. Supported efforts include increasing Indigenous representation in STEM fields, facilitating successful community college transfers to selective four-year institutions, and boosting college enrollment for low-income students through advising programs. The initiative also sponsors research to inform and improve access and outcomes for these student populations. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (anticipated/projected annual deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Award sizes vary by initiative and scope. - Past examples include: - $500,000 to support Indigenous STEM students (AISES) - $7 million invested in community college transfer initiatives - Over $12 million invested in the National College Advising Corps - Multi-year funding is possible; typical grants support large-scale, strategic programs. --- ## Eligibility - Primarily nonprofit organizations whose missions align with advancing the education of high-achieving, low-income students. - The Foundation rarely, if ever, funds unsolicited proposals. - Initiatives must demonstrate significant potential impact on educational access or success for the target student population. - Projects may focus on direct student support, institutional partnerships, or research. --- ## Application Process - The Foundation typically invites proposals from selected organizations; unsolicited proposals are rarely considered. - Prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor the Foundation’s website and subscribe to the [Foundation newsletter](https://apply.jkcf.org/register/newsletter) for updates. - For specific inquiries, contact the grants department (see below). --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation supports a limited number of grants each cycle, prioritizing efforts that complement its mission. - Focus areas include STEM access for Indigenous students, community college transfer pathways, and college advising for low-income students. - Research initiatives to inform policy and practice are also supported. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview and Initiatives](https://www.jkcf.org/our-grants/college-access-and-excellence/) - [Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Home](https://www.jkcf.org) - [Subscribe to Foundation Newsletter](https://apply.jkcf.org/register/newsletter) --- ## Contact Information | Department | Email | Phone | Contact Page | |--------------------|-----------------------------|--------------|-------------------------------------------------------| | Grants Department | grants@jkcf.org | 703-723-8000 | [Contact Form](https://www.jkcf.org/contact/) | | General Inquiries | info@jkcf.org | 703-723-8000 | [Contact Form](https://www.jkcf.org/contact/) |

College Access and Excellence

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