STEAD (Science and Technology Educational Access to Development) Funds
STEAD (Science and Technology Educational Access to Development) Funds support educators and community partners creating inclusive, hands-on STEM learning that connects Vermont K–12 students with research and careers.
Funder: STRIVE Vermont
Due Dates: February 15, 2027 (Cycle 1) | August 15, 2027 (Cycle 2)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2,500 per award; 3–5 awards anticipated annually; funding period up to 12 months
Summary: STEAD funds educator-led and community-based projects expanding hands-on, inclusive STEM learning for Vermont K–12 students.
Key Information: Awards are reimbursement-based and require an approved host institution or fiscal sponsor; individuals cannot receive funds directly.
Description
STRIVE Vermont’s Science and Technology Educational Access to Development (STEAD) program supports educators and community-based partners developing or expanding inclusive STEM curriculum and programming for Vermont K–12 students. Funded through the National Science Foundation’s EPSCoR program, STEAD aims to equip historically underfunded institutions to sustain equitable learning opportunities and connect students with Vermont’s STEM research ecosystem.
Projects should actively engage students, demonstrate STEM’s relevance to everyday life, introduce local research and education or career pathways, and address Vermont’s STEM education challenges. The program emphasizes sustainability, local relevance, and alignment with NSF priorities. Its definition of STEM includes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, alongside fields such as advanced manufacturing, environmental studies, psychology, economics, agriculture, astronomy, and the science of learning.
