NDEP STEM Open NFO
DoD seeks applications for STEM education, outreach, and workforce development programs, with future funding opportunities announced via amendments and solicitations.
Funder: Washington Headquarters Services
Due Dates: April 13, 2026 (MEEP White Paper) | May 19, 2026 (JROTC STEM Leadership Academy Technical Application) | June 15, 2026 (MEEP Technical Application by Invitation) | February 8, 2028 (Final NFO Closing Date)
Funding Amounts: Typical award range: $100,000–$10,000,000; most specific NFO amendments: up to $3.5M (MEEP, 3 years) or $2M (JROTC STEM Leadership, ~16 months)
Summary: Supports innovative STEM education, workforce, and outreach initiatives aligned with Department of Defense priorities, with rolling amendments targeting specific topics.
Key Information: Two-stage process: white paper submission (by amendment deadline), then full application by invitation; see NFO amendments for topic-specific requirements.
Description
This open funding opportunity supports a broad range of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, outreach, and workforce development initiatives that align with Department of Defense (DoD) priorities. Managed by Washington Headquarters Services, the program issues rolling amendments (calls) for specific topics such as manufacturing engineering education, JROTC STEM leadership academies, community college partnerships, STEM scholarships, and more. Funding is awarded competitively to projects that demonstrate innovative approaches, technical merit, and alignment with national security workforce needs. Eligible activities may include curriculum development, hands-on learning, workforce pipeline programs, strategic partnerships, and program evaluation.
