Teachers, submit your application by Aug. 15 for a chance to win one of five $100 Visa gift cards in a statewide drawing! Apply now: ncbrightideas.com.

This year, North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives will collectively award an estimated $700,000 in Bright Ideas grants, and educators can receive grants of up to $2,000 in most areas! #NCBrightIdeas

On this #EarthDay, try these simple ideas to go green in your classroom. For more energy saving tips, contact your local electric co-op. 1.Turn off all lights when you’re not there. 2.Properly dispose of trash and recycle. 3.Educate students on environmental responsibility.

Prepare your answers ahead of time to make sure your first submission is your best submission! Access a sample Bright Ideas application here: ncelectriccooperatives.com/wp-content/upl….

Cooperatives are committed to community, and as a co-op member, you are part of the commitment. Bright Ideas grants are just one wat that electric co-ops are powering learning in your community. Learn more at ncelectriccooperatives.com/in-the-communi…. #BrighterFutureNC

Today, and every day, we thank our teachers! Electric co-ops are honored to partner with our state’s outstanding educators through Bright Ideas grants, and we recognize them for their dedication to building a brighter future for our future leaders. #TeacherAppreciationDay

May is #ElectricalSafetyMonth! Keep your classroom and students safe by using protective coverings on outlets that are not in use, replacing frayed wires and teaching your students the important of electrical safety. Contact your local co-op for more safety tips!

Happy Mother’s Day!

As part of the application process, Bright Ideas projects must be approved by your school’s principal. Make sure your principal or supervisor is aware of your application, approves of the project and will provide support as needed.

‘Bright Ideas shine when shared’ – This Bright Ideas campaign was one of the program’s first back in 1996! #ThrowbackThursday

All applications must include accurate estimated costs for the project and show exactly how the money will be spent. Only request the amount you need to successfully administer your project. Grant amounts of up to $2,500 are available in most areas!

Electric co-ops in N.C. have been supporting local teachers for nearly 30 years through Bright Ideas grants. Be a part of our #BrighterFutureNC, apply for a Bright Ideas grant through your local electric co-op today! Visit ncbrightideas.com to learn more and apply online.

Keep it simple! Avoid using jargon, spell out acronyms and explain terms that non-educators may not understand.

For those who bravely served, thank you.

Be compelling, but don’t overstate your case. Make sure the reader understands your needs and your ability to address those needs through the proposed project.

School’s out for the summer – teachers, apply now for a #NCBrightIdeas grant for the upcoming school year! Apply online at ncbrightideas.com.

Clear and concise is key! Grant reviewers usually read a lot of applications in a short amount of time.

Happy Father’s Day!

Students from across the state are expanding their leadership skills, connecting with peers and learning the cooperative difference at basketball camps and Youth Tour this week.

Know that your first draft will not be your last. Take the time to develop a comprehensive project plan. Just remember, don’t submit your grant application until you’re ready for it to be reviewed by the judging panel. The final deadline to apply is Sept. 15 in most areas.