Fiscal Year 2024 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Program

Background
The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) seeks a broad range of applications for augmenting existing and/or developing innovative solutions that directly maintain and/or cultivate a diverse, world-class Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) workforce to maintain the U.S. Air Force and Space Force’s technological superiority. The goal of proposed efforts must provide solutions that establish, build, and/or maintain STEM educational pathways and workforce opportunities for diverse U.S. citizens directly relevant to AFOSR science and technology areas.

Grant Details
The AFOSR STEM program provides funds to support professional development, education and outreach programming. The program is specifically seeking STEM education and outreach projects that address scientific and technical areas identified in the following thrust areas. Project scope may range in size and complexity. While not a formal requirement or program focus of this FOA, applicants are strongly encouraged to consider under-represented and under-served populations including women and minorities in project plans. Special audience priority areas may include, but not be limited to, military connected students, veteran initiatives, and education systems integral to DAF science and technology.

Eligibility Requirements
All responsible sources from academia, non-profit organizations, and industry (for-profit) organizations may submit applications under this FOA. Multiple Principal Investigators from the same organization may apply for a STEM Program award, but each proposal must be distinctive. Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, Tribal Colleges or Universities, Alaska Native-serving institutions, Native-Hawaiian-serving institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions, Native American-serving nontribal institutions, Minority Institutions, and covered educational institutions in 10 U.S.C 4144 are especially encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
Proposals can be made for up to three (3) years in duration; that is, one (1) Base Year with two (2) Option Years. Proposals can request up to $150,000 per year, totaling $450,000 at the end of three (3) years. Proposals must use September 1, 2024 as the anticipated start date; however, the actual effective date is not final until an award is made.

Grant Value
Approximately $1.8M is anticipated to support the awards under this announcement, subject to availability of funds.