The FY2027 Innovation Career Pathways Implementation Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education funds research-driven program development and STEM career pathway enhancements in designated schools.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates: September 3, 2026 (Temporary GEM$ access request for new orgs) | September 10, 2026 (Full application due via GEM$ by 5:00 p.m. Eastern)
Funding Amounts: Up to $75,000 for new SY26-27 programs; up to $50,000 for prior designees; approx. $6,075,000 total available.
Summary: Supports designated Innovation Career Pathways programs in Massachusetts with targeted resources for effective implementation and program development.
Key Information: Only districts/schools with official Innovation Career Pathways designation are eligible; strict submission via GEM$ required.
This grant offers targeted funding to Massachusetts school districts and schools that have received official Innovation Career Pathways (ICP) designation from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The goal is to enhance the effective implementation of these career pathway programs, particularly in the strategic transformation region. Funds support program administration, curricular development, industry engagement, professional development, and the integration of high-quality college and career advising, all aligned with DESE’s five guiding principles for Innovation Career Pathways. The initiative aims to expand student access to work-based learning and postsecondary opportunities in high-demand industry sectors.