What is Zoo Fund for Kids?

The ZOOfund for Kids program is a grant program assisting schools and non-profit organizations by providing an opportunity for children to attend a Zoo education class and experience wildlife and nature on a personal level. Since its creation in 1997, more than 430,000 children have been served.

The Oklahoma Zoological Society (OZS), a nonprofit organization supporting the OKC Zoo’s mission, provides these grants to offset the cost of zoo education programs. Grants are available for Pre-K to 12^th grade students, and non-profit youth and adult organizations on a competitive basis.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• The ZooFund for Kids Grant is offered based on availability of funds. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

  • You should hear from us within a month of submitting your application on if you've been accepted. 

• Applications are not accepted for entire schools. One application is submitted per class or grade level. All other interested persons within the school must apply separately to be considered for the program.

• If your application is approved, Oklahoma City Zoo Education will notify the contact(s) listed on the application to schedule the program.

• All participants must arrive and enter the Zoo at the same time. Additional adult chaperones must enter through the main gate. 

• There is no deadline to submit an application for Schools and Non-Profits.

Application Guidelines: 

• Schools:  Schools must select one of two program options, either classes at the OKC Zoo (Pre K – 12) OR an outreach program(s) at awarded site.  Schools may also apply for a bus allotment up to $150 per bus.  

• Non-profit Organizations:  Non-profit organizations must select one of two program options, either classes at the OKC Zoo (Pre-K – 12) OR an outreach program(s) at awarded site. Non-profits may also apply for a bus allotment up to $150 per bus.

• At this time, we are no longer accepting library applications, so we can prioritize our reach to Oklahoma City metro area schools.  

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applications must be complete with all requested information provided.

• Request must be from an Oklahoma based school, or non-profit organization.

• For School applicants only, preference will be given to those with 80% or more of their students receiving free or reduced lunches. Visit schoolreportcard.org/report-card/

• Applicants must request an education program at the OKC Zoo or an education outreach program provided by the OKC Zoo. Visit:  okczoo.org/school-experiences

• School applications must include a letter on school letterhead, signed by the principal, acknowledging their school has applied for the ZFK grant.

• Applicants must not request more than $2,000. 

• Final Report must be submitted.

Selection Process:

• Preference will be given to schools, and non-profit organizations within the Oklahoma City metro and surrounding areas.  (Metro and surrounding areas include but are not limited to Oklahoma City, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Moore, Midwest City, Del City, Norman, Bethany, Piedmont, Deer Creek, Choctaw, Warr Acres)

• Previous participation in the ZOOfund for Kids Grant will be considered, including but not limited to the following: organization utilized all funding available, ease of scheduling and positive behavior from participants.

• Applications are reviewed on an annual competitive basis.

• Application must be complete.

• Applications will be evaluated and selected for funding by a committee.

• Successful applications will include a compelling essay clearly explaining objectives and measurable outcomes.

Grant Restrictions:

• Funds cannot be used with any other Zoo or ZOOfriends specials or promotions.

• Food costs, overnight programs, rides and shows are not covered by these funds.

• Funds must be used by July 31, 2023 and cannot be carried over, held or transferred.

• Grants cover program and admission costs only. Bus allowance may not cover complete cost of transportation.

Additional Information:

• The Oklahoma City Zoo reserves the right to pause or stop any awarded program in the instance it becomes unsafe for the animals, audience, instructor and/or biofacts.

• Programs may also be canceled due to severe weather.

• The Oklahoma City Zoo does not provide programs to private homes.

APPLY HERE by clicking below links!

NON-PROFIT APPLICATION

SCHOOL APPLICATION

  Would you like to be added to a list to receive ZFK grant updates?  Sign Up Now

  If you have questions about the Zoofund for Kids please contact education@okczoo.org or 405.425.0218