The National Science Foundation's STEM K-12 funding program is actively encouraging proposal submissions from researchers and practitioners working in informal STEM learning environments across the lifespan.
According to NSF program officers, the program is particularly interested in hearing from principal investigators who have previously engaged with the now-archived Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) program as PIs or review panelists.
One notable feature of the STEM K-12 program is that it has no submission deadlines, allowing investigators to apply at any time. However, applicants hoping to be considered for funding before the end of the NSF Fiscal Year 2026 (Sept. 30, 2026) should plan to submit proposals by early June 2026. Proposals submitted later would generally be considered for FY2027 Funding.
Clarification for the Informal STEM Learning Community
NSF program officers acknowledge that some aspects of the STEM K-12 solicitation may unintentionally discourage informal STEM learning researchers from applying. They offer several clarifications:
The Program is Not Limited to Formal K-12 Settings
Despite the program title, STEM K-12 is not restricted to formal classroom environments. The program welcomes projects involving learners of all ages, from early childhood through older adulthood, and supports work in both formal and informal learning settings.
Examples of eligible informal STEM learning environments include:
- Museums and science centers
- Libraries
- Community-based organizations
- After-school and summer programs
- Citizen science and community science initiatives
- Digital game and online environments
- Podcasts, gardens, zoos, and aquariums
- Senior centers
- Public engagement with STEM activities
- Neighborhood-based learning environments
AI-Focused Projects Are Encouraged - But Not Required
The solicitation references artificial intelligence and emerging technologies as areas of interest. However, program officers emphasized that proposals unrelated to AI are fully welcome and will not be disadvantaged in the review process.
Budget Flexibility is Possible
Although the solicitation includes suggested funding ranges, NSF recognizes that some informal STEM learning projects - particularly those involving media production, technology development, or large-scale public engagement - may require larger budgets. Higher-cost proposals may still be considered if the proposed expenses are well justified.
Additional Proposal Mechanisms are Available
In addition to standard Research and/or Development and Conferences proposals, investigators may also submit:
Applicants should consult the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) for preparation instructions. NSF also noted that investigators planning to submit EAGER, RAPID, Planning, or Conference proposals should contact program officers before submission.
Informational Webinar on May 11
To help the informal STEM learning community better understand this opportunity, the REVISE Center will host an informational webinar on May 11 at 11 AM. STEM K-12 program officers will provide guidance on the solicitation and answer participant questions.
Contact Information
Investigators interested in discussing project ideas with NSF are encouraged to contact:
NSF recommends sharing a 1–2 page concept paper in advance to help guide the discussion. Program officers especially encourage advance conversations for investigators planning to submit EAGER, RAPID, Planning, Conference, or above-range budget proposals.