Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Education, Outreach and Workforce Program

To support educational programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education, Outreach and Workforce Program

This program is to support educational programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education, Outreach and Workforce Program for K-12 students, current uniformed members of the Navy and Navy civilians.

All responsible sources from public nonprofit institutions/organizations to include elementary, middle and high schools, private non-profit institutions/organizations, small businesses, profit organizations, and other private institutions/organizations may submit proposals. Grants cannot be awarded to individuals or families.

Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Minority Institutions (MIs).

Educational programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), which foster an interest in, knowledge of, and study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics nationwide to ensure an educated and well-prepared workforce capable of meeting the needs of the Navy and the Nation. In support of this mission, the following five goals have been identified: - Inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. [Grades K-10]; - Engage students in STEM-related hands-on learning activities using Navy content. [Grades 3-12]; - Educate students to be well-prepared for employment in STEM disciplines in the Navy or in supporting academic institutions or the Naval contractor community. [Higher Education]; - Employ, retain and develop Naval STEM professionals. [Higher Education, Professional Development, Faculty]; - Collaborate across Naval STEM programs to maximize benefits to participants and the Navy.

Grants will reflect a period of performance.

1. Potential naval or defense relevance and contributions of the effort to the agency's specific education and science and engineering workforce. Scientific and technical merit of the proposal and its potential to achieve the educational objectives of the program, including the extent to which the proposed effort would enhance multidisciplinary studies relative to current capabilities. Appropriateness of the metrics used to determine impact and or success of the program. Appropriateness of the methodology for obtaining and validating the metrics. 2. Outreach initiatives proposed for increasing and maintaining the educational pipeline and the potential of the proposed program to educate future scientists and engineers in STEM disciplines critical to the defense mission. Increased or enhanced opportunities to disseminate information on navy or defense programs and careers. Impact of the initiatives toward improving science and engineering education in the United States. Extent to which the program engages naval or defense laboratories as active participants in program execution. 3. Potential contributions of the proposed programs to the national defense mission. 4. Past, present or proposed collaborative educational activities with other institutions, such as colleges/universities. The degree of partnership between the school system or local education agency, and the naval/defense laboratory, or warfare center. 5. Industry-Government Partnering - ONR highly encourages partnering among industry and Government with a view toward speeding the incorporation of new science and technology into fielded systems. Proposals that utilize industry-Government partnering which enhances the development of novel educational programs will be given favorable consideration. 6. Personnel qualifications, capabilities, availability, and experience. Key personnel must commit time and attention to ensure success of the program. 7. Budgetary realism and cost effectiveness of the program.

Award decisions will be based on a competitive selection of proposals resulting from a technical, management and cost review. Evaluations will use the criteria contained in the relevant announcement. If selected for award, the proposal is incorporated into a grant or cooperative agreement document, and the applicant agrees to perform the mission described therein.

Awards may be made at any time throughout the open period for which funding is authorized.

Renewals or extensions of existing STEM education or outreach awards are subject to the terms of the specific Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) or BAA under which the award was made. Approval is contingent upon performance metrics, program relevance, and fund availability.

Applicants seeking clarification or feedback on evaluation outcomes should consult the specific merit-review and debriefing instructions outlined in the governing program announcement or contact the listed ONR program point of contact.