News & Events

Bright Ideas grants spark innovation in local classrooms

For more than 20 years, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative has supported local classrooms through its Bright Ideas education grant program, providing funding for innovative projects that give students opportunities to learn beyond traditional classroom instruction.

The application deadline for the 2026 Bright Ideas grant program is Sept. 14, 2026.

Since the program began, Mid-Carolina has awarded more than 200 grants to educators across its service area. The grants have funded hands-on projects in science, technology, literacy, the arts and more, helping teachers bring creative lessons to life and giving students new ways to engage with what they’re learning.

Mid-Carolina leaders say Bright Ideas grants are just one of the ways the cooperative invests in the communities it serves by supporting educators, enriching student learning and encouraging the next generation of leaders.

“Supporting education is one of the best investments we can make in our communities,” says Bob Paulling, president and CEO of Mid-Carolina Electric. “Teachers inspire, encourage and prepare tomorrow’s workforce every day. Bright Ideas gives us the opportunity to support their creativity and help students experience learning in new and exciting ways.”

Chapin Middle School teacher Jill Sullivan received a Bright Ideas grant in 2025 to support her math classroom.

“I was absolutely thrilled and deeply honored to receive this generous Bright Ideas grant for my math classroom,” Sullivan says. “A heartfelt thank you to Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative and the Bright Ideas Committee for empowering my classroom and supporting my students’ mathematical journey. This commitment to education truly makes a difference!”

Bright Ideas grants are available to kindergarten through 12th-grade educators in Lexington County School Districts One, Two, Three and Five, along with the Saluda County School District. Teachers may apply for funding for innovative classroom projects that engage students, encourage creativity and support measurable educational outcomes.

Each fall, Mid-Carolina celebrates grant recipients by visiting schools throughout its service territory to personally deliver the awards, often surprising teachers in front of their students and colleagues. The annual tradition highlights the cooperative’s continued commitment to education while recognizing educators for their dedication to making learning engaging and impactful.

Apply by Sept. 14

Educators interested in bringing a Bright Idea to life in their classroom are encouraged to apply for the 2026 grant program by Sept. 14, 2026.

More information about the Bright Ideas program and the online application is available here.