VA starbase - 4101, opens award, adds initial allotment and implements gcapl 26-01

The Department of Defense Washington Headquarters Service awarded a cooperative agreement totaling $712,100 to the Virginia Department of Military Affairs on October 1, 2025, to operate the STARBASE Program (CFDA 12.020) through September 30, 2026.

STARBASE is an afterschool, middle and high school mentoring initiative conducted in partnership with local school districts that combines STEM activities with a relationship-rich, school-based environment. The program raises interest and improves knowledge and skills of underserved youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to develop a highly educated and skilled American workforce meeting advanced technological requirements of the Department of Defense.

The Virginia National Guard, operating through its Division of the Virginia Department of Military Affairs, is the recipient. Performance occurs in Virginia. This is a Congressionally directed, non-discretionary award to a state National Guard; only the 50 States, District of Columbia, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, and Guam National Guard are allowable applicants under this program. The recipient works through the Adjutant General and coordinates with the USPFO for approval. Recipients must maintain cost records for three years following closeout.