RFP #457: Charter Schools Programs (CSP) Start-Up Grants
The New York State Education Department's RFP #457 funds the planning, design, and initial implementation of innovative new charter schools to advance educational opportunities.
Funder: New York State Education Department
Due Dates: August 21, 2026 (Questions) | September 4, 2026 (Notice of Intent recommended) | September 18, 2026 (Full application, 5:00 PM ET)
Funding Amounts: Total pool: $12,000,000; Individual awards: up to $1,500,000 (base, 3 years), with potential for an additional $500,000 for qualifying priorities (max $2,000,000).
Summary: Supports new charter schools in New York State with planning, program design, and initial implementation costs.
Key Information: Nonprofit applicants must be prequalified in the Statewide Financial System by the application deadline to be eligible.
Description
This grant provides competitive funding to support the planning, program design, and initial implementation of new charter schools in New York State. The initiative aims to expand educational opportunities, particularly for traditionally underserved students, by helping new charter schools successfully launch and sustain their operations. The program is part of the federal Charter Schools Program under Title IV, Part C of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act.
Eligible applicants can use funds for a range of start-up activities, including professional development, hiring staff for planning, acquiring supplies and educational materials, conducting minor renovations, supporting community engagement, and other appropriate non-sustained costs directly related to opening a new charter school.
