Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program

 

Direct Your Tax Dollars to Local Education

Each year, hundreds of students from Bucks County and beyond take part in Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center’s environmental education programs thanks to the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. Through this funding, our educators partner with local school districts and teachers to provide hands-on, experiential learning in the environmental sciences, all aligned with Pennsylvania’s new STEELS standards.


What is EITC?

The Educational Improvement Tax Credit is a Pennsylvania state program that encourages businesses to support academic enrichment programs by providing tax credits for contributions to approved Educational Improvement Organizations (EIOs).

Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center is a proud approved EIO. By participating, your business can make a lasting impact on local education while also receiving valuable tax benefits.


Benefits for Your Business

75% tax credit for a one-year contribution.

90% tax credit for a two-year commitment (same donation amount both years).

Contributions may also qualify as a charitable deduction on federal tax returns.
(Consult your tax advisor for details.)


This program is a win-win: your business reduces its state tax liability while helping local students build knowledge, curiosity, and stewardship of the natural world.


Eligible Pennsylvania Taxes
  • Businesses authorized to operate in Pennsylvania and paying any of the following are eligible:
  • Personal Income Tax (from LLCs, S-Corps, and other pass-through entities)
  • Corporate Net Income Tax
  • Capital Stock/Franchise Tax
  • Bank and Trust Company Shares Tax
  • Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax
  • Insurance Premiums Tax
  • Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax


Our Academic Enrichment Programs

Peace Valley Nature Center’s programs are designed to complement classroom learning with field-based, real-world science education. Students engage in:

The water cycle, watersheds, and water chemistry

Aquatic life studies

Ecosystem exploration

Biotic and abiotic habitat studies

What makes our programs unique is the balance of classroom partnerships (pre- and post-visit lessons) with outdoor learning at our 750-acre “living classroom.” These experiences inspire students to see connections between science, stewardship, and the natural world.



How to Apply (if you are already an approved business, skip to step #2)

Step 1. Visit the DCED EITC webpage and apply:
👉 PA DCED EITC Program Application

Step 2. Once approved, make your gift to Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center within 60 days (as required by DCED).

Step 3. We will provide you with an official acknowledgment letter for your records.

⚠️ Important: Please list our full legal name on your application:
 “Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center”


Timing Matters

Returning applicants may apply starting May 15.

New applicants may apply starting July 1.

Tax credits are capped each year and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.


Partner With Us

Interested in learning more? We’d be glad to provide a presentation to your business or answer your questions about the program.


📧 Contact: Jenn Bilger, Environmental Education Manager
📨 v-jlbilger@buckscounty.org
📞 267-880-5047


Together, we can connect today’s students with the knowledge and love of nature that will sustain our community for the next 50 years.

EITC Flyer