Intent to apply

Applications are now closed for the STEM Learning Ecosystems Initiative. We will announce selected communities on August 21, 2015.

Eligible programs for the STEM Learning Ecosystems Initiative will meet the following criteria:

Type of Organization:  Applications will be accepted from the following types of organizations: (Please note: Lead applicant should be determined by community-based ecosystem and there shall be only one application per community.)

• Non-profit organization, with a significant focus on and interest in STEM education, that is exempt (with Section 501(c)(3) designation) or public organization, or
• Local educational agency (LEA)

Location: Applicants are expected to represent a wide community base, such as a city, region or state. An applicant such as a school within a larger school district, where the ecosystem initiative is limited to that school site only, for example, would not qualify. The intent is for ecosystems to represent communities with a diverse composition of community stakeholders and reach. Review the invited communities list to ensure coordination among local partners.

Selection:  Up to 25 communities will be selected to participate the Community of Practice and receive technical assistance in designing and cultivating their STEM Learning Ecosystem. Out of the selected 25 communities, up to 10 communities will be awarded up to $10,000 in one-time collaboration grants (the community will be responsible for securing a 2:1 match in support within the first six months of the project).

Cross-Sector Partnerships:  Applicants are expected to represent emerging or established collaborative relationships with their cross-sector counterparts and provide clear evidence how their connections support the development of their STEM Learning Ecosystem. Communities must demonstrate established or emerging relationships with multiple partners, including: preK-16 schools; community settings such as afterschool and summer programs; institutions of higher education; STEM-expert organizations such as science centers, museums, corporations, intermediary and non-profit organizations or professional associations; businesses; funders; and informal experiences at home and in a variety of environments.

STEM Learning Ecosystems Attributes and Strategies: Applicants should review the attributes and strategies as identified in Report from the Field: How Cross-Sector Collaborations are Advancing STEM Learning. Traphagen, K., & Traill, S. (2014). Communities should use those attributes and strategies to gauge their readiness for participate in the Initiative.