Jump Starters is a new program of grants for youth-led service learning community challenge projects in the 4-state region. This area includes northwest Missouri and bordering counties in Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. The grant program was awarded to the Heartland Foundation from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) with Learn and Serve America funding.

Schools and youth organizations within the expanded Heartland Foundation service region may apply.

Applicants must have completed the emPower Plant curriculum or Public Achievement Action Plan to be eligible to apply for the competitive grants. Also, the adult sponsor or teacher must have participated in an orientation session about Jump Starters. Grant amounts range from $2,500 to a maximum of $15,000. Average awards are expected to be $5,000. Awardees may reapply for new funding in years two and three.