National Science Foundation Fostering Interdisciplinary Networks to Develop Emergent and Responsive Solutions Foundry
NSF FINDERS FOUNDRY funds partnerships among educators, technologists, and researchers to co-create AI-focused solutions that improve K-12 learning and workforce readiness through evidence-based, scalable innovations.
Browse similar grants
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation
Due Dates: May 27, 2026 (Planning proposals) | November 18, 2026 (Development proposals)
Funding Amounts: Planning: up to $50,000 for up to 2 months; Development: up to $300,000 for 1 year; $8.5 million total anticipated funding
Summary: Supports interdisciplinary teams co-designing evidence-based, technology-driven solutions to improve K–12 STEM learning and workforce preparation, particularly through AI.
Key Information: Only teams awarded Planning grants may submit Development proposals.
Description
NSF FINDERS FOUNDRY brings together K–12 educators, technologists, researchers, and families to address learning and workforce-development challenges identified by students, families, and educators. It supports scalable, evidence-based practices, tools, and technologies that improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a digital, AI-driven future. Projects incorporating AI as a subject of learning or a tool for instruction are strongly encouraged.
The program operates through Planning and Development phases, moving interdisciplinary teams from challenge selection and wireframe design to prototypes and minimum viable products (MVPs). Supported work includes stakeholder engagement, data collection, pilot testing, early validation, design-based implementation research, efficacy studies, and translational research. NSF’s Directorates for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships and STEM Education lead the program, with co-funding from philanthropic partners committed to technology-enabled learning.
