SD - starbase 4102 SF - 4606

DOD Washington Headquarters Service awarded a cooperative agreement to SD Air National Guard for $718,672 on October 1, 2025, under the National Guard ChalleNGe Program (CFDA 12.404) to operate youth science and technology education centers (STARBASE) in South Dakota.

SD Air National Guard, operating as SD Air Guard-Dept Mil & Vets and headquartered in Sioux Falls, administers the STARBASE program at two locations: Rapid City and Sioux Falls. The program provides military-based training, supervised work experience in community service and conservation projects, and life skills development for civilian youth who are credit deficient or have ceased secondary school attendance before graduation, aimed at improving employment potential.

The award obligates $718,672 for the period October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, with performance in South Dakota. The National Guard ChalleNGe Program is non-discretionary, Congressionally directed assistance available only to state National Guards and specified U.S. territories. Recipients must work through their Adjutant General and develop plans addressing student selection, curriculum, residential and post-residential phases, facilities, staffing, and detailed budgets. Award recipients maintain financial and programmatic records for three years following closeout.