School Maintenance Project Grant
School Maintenance Project Grant supports Illinois educational entities with facility repairs and improvements, prioritizing disaster recovery, safety, and adaptations serving educational programs.
Funder: Illinois State Board of Education
Due Dates: September 28, 2026 (FY 2027 opening) | January 29, 2027, 4 p.m. (FY 2027 deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 per award, with a dollar-for-dollar local match; funds must be expended or obligated within two years of disbursement
Summary: Supports maintenance and upkeep of Illinois educational buildings, prioritizing disaster recovery, safety, and improvements serving educational programs.
Key Information: Applicants must not begin project work or obligate project funds before submitting the application.
Description
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) administers the School Maintenance Project Grant as a state matching program for maintenance and upkeep of buildings or structures used for educational purposes. A project may combine different types of work within one building or across several buildings. Funding supports physical facilities rather than ongoing operational expenses, including in-house labor for projects that are not contracted out.
Awards prioritize disaster-related emergencies, followed by health/life safety improvements that correct code violations, provide accessibility, or strengthen school security. Subsequent priorities include energy conservation and adaptations supporting funded educational programs, permanent improvements to building systems, and other maintenance projects. Eligible educational entities apply through IWAS, with review by regional superintendents and ISBE’s School Business Services Department.
