Tri-County EMC is partnering with outstanding educators to bring their creative lesson plans to life! Starting April 1, teachers can apply for a Bright Ideas education grant of up to $1,000 to fund projects that enhance student success in K-12 classrooms.
The 2026-27 school year marks the 32nd year that North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have funded educators’ innovative projects. During that time Tri-County EMC has proudly contributed more than $2 million to fund 2,366 educational projects that have positively impacted students in Duplin, Lenoir, and Wayne counties. The grants encompass a wide range of subject areas, including but not limited to art, science, history, music, and mathematics, allowing educators to bring diverse and creative ideas to life in their classrooms.
The deadline for submitting Bright Ideas grant applications is September 15. However, we encourage teachers to apply early, as those who do will automatically be entered for a chance to win one of five Visa gift cards as an early incentive prize. The early bird deadline is August 15, so don't miss out on this exciting opportunity!
Supported by all 26 electric cooperatives in North Carolina, Bright Ideas grants have contributed nearly $17 million to N.C. classrooms, funding more than 16,000 projects and benefiting close to four million students statewide since 1994.
For additional information and resources about the Bright Ideas grant program, please visit www.tcemc.com.
Together, we’re empowering educators, inspiring students, and energizing the future of our communities.