Two national funding opportunities are now accepting proposals for innovative ideas related to re-imagining schools and developing new interactive learning games.

First up, the C2i: Gaming Challenge from the NEA Foundation:

The NEA Foundation and Microsoft – US Partners in Learning want to know your best idea for how interactive technology and game-based learning can improve teaching and learning. According to Kids and Gaming 2011, the latest report from The NPD Group, 91 percent of kids ages 2-17 (approximately 64 million) play electronic games in the U.S., nearly a 10 per cent increase from 2009. The challenge for educators is how to harness this powerful tool.

Submissions for game-based learning initiatives will be accepted until March 5, 2012. Learn more at The NEA Foundation.

Next up, the Wave IIIa: Breakthrough School Models for College Readiness:

Our vision for Wave IIIa is to identify and scale fundamentally redesigned, whole school models that combine the best aspects of brick and mortar and online learning and result in more personalized, mastery based learning.

Prior to applying, all applicants are strongly encouraged to read and review the Wave IIIa Requests for Proposals.

Applying for Wave IIIa support is a two phase process. The initial form-based application will be accepted on a rolling basis until June 8, 2012.

Visit Next Generation Learning Challenges for details on how to apply, to download forms, and access helpful resources.