The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..." NSF is vital because we support basic research and people to create knowledge that transforms the future.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Directorate for STEM Education (EDU), serves as a component of NSF’s agency-wide commitment to promoting the inclusivity and innovation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and research.

The mission of EDU is to achieve excellence in U.S. science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education at all levels and in all settings (both formal and informal) in order to support the development of a diverse and well-prepared workforce of scientists, technicians, engineers, mathematicians and educators and a well-informed citizenry that have access to the ideas and tools of science and engineering. The purpose of these activities is to enhance the quality of life of all citizens and the health, prosperity, welfare and security of the nation.

The Directorate’s programs support the advancement of STEM education by providing funding for individual researchers, collaborative teams and the development of educational tools and resources. It also offers training and mentorship for students and early-career educators.

The HBCU Making and Innovation Initiative is supported by the HBCU-UP program.

HBCU-UP provides awards to develop, implement, and study innovative models and approaches for making dramatic improvements in the preparation and success of underrepresented minority students so that they may participate in STEM graduate programs and the workforce. Support is available for Implementation Projects (including Achieving Competitive Excellence), Broadening Participation Research Projects, Targeted Infusion Projects, Planning Grants, Research Initiation Awards, and other funding opportunities.

Please click below for complete information regarding:

HBCU-UP

Directorate for STEM Education (EDU)

This work is funded by NSF award number NSF 2037362.