In today’s education landscape, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) has become more than just a buzzword – it’s essential. Schools are facing increasing pressure to address students’ mental health, improve academic outcomes, and create supportive learning environments. The good news? Meaningful funding opportunities still exist to support SEL programs in 2026, even as the landscape has shifted significantly since 2024. From active federal programs to state initiatives and private foundations, this guide breaks down the key opportunities available right now – and gives practical tips on how to secure the resources your school needs. Let’s get started.
Overview of SEL Grants in 2026
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) remains a priority in education, especially as schools continue addressing the long-term impacts of the pandemic on student mental health and academic outcomes. In 2026, the funding landscape has changed considerably: some programs have expired, others have been restructured, and new opportunities have emerged.
The most significant shift is the expiration of ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds. The obligation deadline passed on September 30, 2024, and the liquidation deadline was January 28, 2025. Schools that relied on ESSER for SEL programs are now navigating what advocates call the “ESSER fiscal cliff.” No direct federal replacement has been enacted at the same scale.
That said, substantial federal, state, and private funding still exists – schools simply need to know where to look. Federal programs under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) continue to provide pathways for SEL funding. State-level investments are growing, with Massachusetts and California both expanding their commitments in 2026. Private foundations are also evolving their funding priorities to match current student needs.
This combined effort from federal, state, and private sectors highlights the continued importance of SEL in fostering both academic and social success for students (CASEL).
Federal Funding for SEL in 2025–2026
ESSER – Expired
The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund, which provided billions in pandemic relief that many schools directed toward SEL and mental health programs, is now closed. The obligation deadline was September 30, 2024, and the final liquidation deadline was January 28, 2025. Districts still holding unspent ESSER funds at those deadlines were required to return them. No direct federal replacement program has been authorized at a comparable scale.
Schools previously relying on ESSER for SEL programming and student academic outcomes should now pivot to the active federal programs listed below.
Title IV-A – Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE)
Title IV-A under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) remains one of the most accessible federal funding streams for SEL in 2025–26. At least 20% of Title IV-A funds must be used for “well-rounded educational opportunities” and at least another 20% for “safe and healthy students” – a category that explicitly includes social-emotional learning, mental health support, and bullying prevention. Districts should work with their state education agency to confirm their Title IV-A allocation and ensure SEL programs are properly coded under eligible expenditure categories.
Bipartisan Safer Communities Act – Stronger Connections Grant
The Stronger Connections Grant, authorized under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, has a performance period running through September 30, 2026. The program has approximately $1 billion in total funding and supports school safety, mental health services, and positive school climate initiatives – all closely aligned with SEL goals. Eligible activities include crisis intervention programs, trauma-informed practices, and professional development for educators in social-emotional skills. Districts that have not yet applied should check with their state education agency, as funds are distributed through states.
School-Based Mental Health Services Program
The School-Based Mental Health Services Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, published its final priorities in September 2025. The program focuses on increasing the number of credentialed mental health providers in high-need local education agencies (LEAs). While primarily a mental health workforce grant, funded positions often include school counselors and social workers who deliver SEL-aligned services. High-need LEAs should monitor the grants.gov portal for the next application cycle.
Full-Service Community Schools – Status Uncertain
The Full-Service Community Schools program received $150 million in FY2025 funding and has been a strong vehicle for wraparound SEL and community support services. However, in December 2025, the Department of Education discontinued approximately $168 million in community schools grants, signaling significant uncertainty for FY2026. Schools with existing community school grants should verify their award status directly with their program officer.
Pending Federal Legislation
Several bills in Congress, if enacted, would create new dedicated funding streams for school-based mental health and SEL programs:
- Mental Health Services for Students Act (H.R. 5557) – Would authorize $300 million for school-based mental health services
- Mental Health in Schools Excellence Program Act (H.R. 3534) – Would fund comprehensive school mental health programs
- Expanding Student Access to Mental Health Services Act (H.R. 1649) – Would expand access to credentialed mental health providers in schools
Schools and advocates should contact their congressional representatives to express support for this legislation, as passage would significantly expand the federal funding landscape for SEL.
State and Local SEL Funding Opportunities in 2026
State governments continue to be a critical source of dedicated SEL funding, often filling gaps left by changing federal priorities. Two states with notable active opportunities in 2026 are Massachusetts and California.
Massachusetts – FY2026 SEL Continuation Grants
Massachusetts remains one of the leading states for dedicated SEL investment. For FY2026, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is offering approximately $3.5 million in SEL continuation grants. Schools and districts can apply for up to $100,000 in program funding, with an additional $50,000 available for screening pilot initiatives. These grants target school districts, charter schools, and educational collaboratives and prioritize programs that promote equitable, culturally responsive, and accessible SEL practices (Massachusetts DESE).
State funding helps fill gaps that federal grants may not cover, offering schools more flexibility in program design and execution. Massachusetts requires that funded programs prioritize culturally competent teaching strategies and address the diverse needs of the student population.
California – SEL4CA Micro-Grants (New in 2026)
California launched the SEL4CA Micro-Grant program, which opened for applications on March 2, 2026. This program is available to all K-12 educators across the state and is designed to fund small-scale, classroom-level SEL initiatives. Schools and educators in California should visit the SEL4CA website for current application details and deadlines.
Other states are developing similar programs – districts should regularly check their state education agency’s grants portal for new SEL-specific opportunities throughout the year.
Private and Philanthropic SEL Funding Sources in 2026
Private foundations continue to play an important role in SEL funding, though the landscape has shifted. Some major foundations have restructured their giving, making it essential for schools to verify current program status before investing time in applications.
Foundations Still Active
- Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – Ideas for an Equitable Future: Offers grants ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 focused on health equity and community well-being, including school-based initiatives that address the social determinants of health. Competitive, but well-aligned with comprehensive SEL programs.
- Susan Crown Exchange: Awards grants of $5,000 to $100,000 for SEL-focused work. Note that the foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals – organizations must be invited to apply.
- Ellison Education: Offering 20 to 25 grants in Spring 2026, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. These smaller grants are well-suited for individual schools or classroom-level SEL projects. Check the Ellison Education website for current application windows.
- NEA Foundation – Student Success Grants: The National Education Association Foundation offers grants to public school educators for projects that advance student learning, including SEL-focused classroom initiatives. These are accessible to individual teachers and small teams.
- Wallace Foundation: While the Wallace Foundation’s PSELI (Partnerships for Social and Emotional Learning Initiative) has concluded its active grantmaking phase, Wallace continues to publish research, tools, and resources that support districts implementing SEL. Their website remains a valuable resource for evidence-based practices.
Foundations That Have Restructured
- NoVo Foundation: The NoVo Foundation, previously a major funder of SEL initiatives, has restructured and is no longer accepting new proposals. Schools that previously received NoVo funding should plan for alternative sources.
Private funding generally offers more flexibility than federal or state funds, allowing schools to experiment with innovative SEL approaches. Many private grants emphasize long-term sustainability, encouraging schools to build programs that continue beyond the initial funding period. Schools looking to diversify their funding should also explore the Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Program for evidence-based initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for high-need students.
Tips for Securing SEL Funding in 2026
Successfully securing funding for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs in 2026 requires a strategic approach, especially given the shifting landscape after ESSER expiration.
Diversify your funding sources. With ESSER gone, relying on any single funding stream is risky. Build a portfolio that combines federal (Title IV-A, Stronger Connections), state, and private grants. This not only improves your chances of securing funds but creates a more sustainable model for long-term SEL program support.
Align proposals with funder priorities. Each funding source has distinct priorities – safe school climate, mental health workforce, equitable practices, community partnerships. Read application guidelines carefully and explicitly connect your SEL program goals to the funder’s stated outcomes. Generic proposals are less competitive.
Lead with data. Funders increasingly require evidence of impact. Collect and present data on how your existing SEL initiatives have improved academic performance, reduced disciplinary incidents, improved attendance, or strengthened school climate. Even preliminary data from pilot programs strengthens a proposal.
Build community partnerships. Many 2026 funding programs – from federal community schools grants to private foundations – favor proposals that demonstrate collaboration with community organizations, mental health agencies, and local partners. Document your existing partnerships and identify new ones that can strengthen your application.
Avoid common grant writing mistakes. Vague program descriptions, insufficient budget justification, and missing measurable outcomes are the most common reasons applications are rejected. Clearly outline your goals, implementation timeline, staff roles, and how you will measure success. Have someone outside your team review the proposal before submission.
Monitor emerging opportunities. The federal funding landscape is changing. Track grants.gov and your state education agency’s website regularly, and join listservs from organizations like CASEL and the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning that track new funding announcements.
Building SEL Foundations for the Future
The funding landscape for Social Emotional Learning has grown more complex in 2026 – but the opportunity to build impactful programs is very much alive. Schools that are strategic, diversified, and data-driven in their approach to grant-seeking will be well-positioned to sustain and expand their SEL efforts even as individual funding streams evolve.
Whether tapping into Title IV-A, pursuing state grants in Massachusetts or California, or building relationships with aligned private foundations, the resources to support students’ social and emotional growth are available. SEL is at the heart of creating environments where students thrive both emotionally and academically – and securing the right funding is the first step.
Ori Learning offers the tools to bring these initiatives to life. With a focus on preparing students for college, careers, and community success, Ori Learning provides a platform that not only enhances SEL programs but also equips educators to meet today’s complex educational challenges. By aligning innovative curriculum with real-world skills, Ori Learning supports schools in their mission to foster well-rounded individuals.
Their easy-to-use online platform combines Social Emotional Learning (SEL) with Transition Curriculum, ensuring that students are not only prepared academically but also equipped with the emotional and social skills they need to thrive in college, their careers, and their communities.
Ori’s curriculum is adaptable to meet the diverse needs of students and is built to support educators by providing all the necessary tools in one place.
If you’re ready to enhance your SEL and Transition programs, request a demo of Ori Learning’s platform today. It’s a step towards preparing your students for success in all areas of life. Get started here.
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