Future Scholars for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Workforce Development Programs
ID: 327212Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

AFRL Kirtland AFB (DOD-AFRL-AFRLDET8)

Award Range

$25K - $25M

Eligible Applicants

Private Institutions of Higher Education

Funding Category

Science and Technology and other Research and Development

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Kirtland Air Force Base is offering a funding opportunity aimed at developing the future workforce in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through grants and cooperative agreements. This initiative seeks innovative proposals that align with federal STEM strategies, focusing on enhancing educational experiences and workforce development programs, including internships and fellowships, particularly for underrepresented communities. With an anticipated total funding of $50 million available over five years, interested applicants must submit a Letter of Intent prior to their full proposal, with the final submission deadline set for July 22, 2024. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Sara Telano at sara.telano@us.af.mil or Lauren Rice at lauren.rice.3@us.af.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document FOA-20-AFRL/RVKE001, dated June 9, 2020, outlines the Department of Defense (DoD) Research & Development General Terms and Conditions that govern assistance instruments awarded under this announcement. It emphasizes that any award under this call will adhere to specific terms set forth in the July 2018 DoD guidelines. These terms are accessible online through the Office of Naval Research (ONR) website. The document serves as a formal communication regarding compliance and regulations for entities seeking federal funding under this specific program, highlighting the importance of following established government protocols in research and development initiatives while also ensuring adherence to national defense standards.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is initiating a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) to develop Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce programs, with an anticipated total funding of $50 million. The FOA is designed to enhance the U.S. STEM education ecosystem by fostering diverse and innovative talent through various initiatives, including internships and fellowships. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and industry consortia, while entities like defense laboratories and foreign applicants are excluded. Interested parties must submit a Letter of Intent and application via Grants.gov by specified deadlines, with a final submission date of July 22, 2024. Proposals should align with the Government’s STEM mission and will be evaluated based on criteria such as technical merit, program impact, and organizational capacity. The program aims to spread STEM education benefits, enhance community engagement, and prepare future scientists in critical areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity, ensuring the United States maintains its competitive technological edge.
    The FOA-20-AFRL/RVKE-0001, issued on June 25, 2020, outlines opportunities for funding programs aimed at improving STEM education and workforce development. The focus includes various educational initiatives such as internships, fellowships, and project-based learning that align with federal STEM strategies. Key inquiries address eligibility criteria, such as whether programs without military ties qualify, the necessity of organizing proposals via a Letter of Intent, and the possibility for applicants located outside designated Air Force sites to participate. The funding, totaling $50 million, will support multiple awards, with proposals evaluated on equal weight given to both process and science/technology elements. Details about the proposal deadline and budget expectations are included, with all applicants being required to submit a Letter of Intent beforehand. The document serves as a guide for organizations seeking federal grants to foster STEM engagement, particularly in partnership with the Department of Defense initiatives.
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