The North Dakota STEM Ecosystem has announced a new round of grants to support their ongoing mission of “Advancing all students as problem solvers and lifelong learners through STEM.” Eligible recipients include K-12 school districts, area Career and Technology Centers, REA’s, universities and other entities who directly impact K-12 education. All project must be completed by June 30, 2024.
The purpose of the grants is to encourage education entities and business/industry partners to participate in STEM activities/projects for K-12 students within each of the four designated ND STEM Ecosystem Regions (Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest) providing greater opportunities for rural and tribal communities. A total of $35,000 is available statewide, with a minimum of $3,500 required per region.
Projects must benefit students directly, include a sustainability plan, and contain a workforce skills component. Preference will be given to new projects. Preference will also be given to those projects that involve at least three (3) school districts. In addition, applications will be reviewed using the following criteria: appropriateness of project, completeness of application, the number of students engaged in STEM activities, and the number of projects already awarded within each region. Grant awards will be distributed throughout the four designated regions with a goal of at least two (2) projects from each region.
Applications are currently being accepted online: Regional STEM Days for Students - Application. The ND STEM Board of Directors will review grants on a continuing basis until all funds are expended. All funds will be awarded by March 1, 2024. Projects may begin upon approval and must be completed no later than May 15, 2024. Final reports may be submitted immediately upon completion of the project, but must be submitted no later than May 15, 2024.