The Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) program is an applied research and development program that seeks to actualize a diverse future STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and ICT (information and communication technologies) workforce that is prepared to meet pressing local, societal, and global challenges. Because STEM and ICT careers increasingly rely on technologies and computing, the ITEST program funds projects that engage youth, from pre-kindergarten through high school, and pre-K-12 educators in equitable, innovative technology learning and education experiences within and across STEM disciplines in formal or informal settings. These projects build youths’ interest and knowledge in STEM careers, and they prioritize the full inclusion of all groups to include those that have been underrepresented, underserved, or excluded from STEM educational opportunities. This ensures that NSF is better postured to leverage the full spectrum of diverse talent across the country.
This solicitation calls for a Resource Center for the ITEST program. The Resource Center will support diverse, multi-sector stakeholders in actualizing the three pillars of ITEST: (1) strategies for equity in STEM education, (2) partnerships for career and workforce preparation, and (3) innovative use of technologies in teaching and learning. It is expected that this Resource Center will facilitate individual and collective dialogue, reflection, and action relative to these pillars, while supporting stakeholders in the conceptualization, actualization, and communication of ITEST projects.
Full Proposal Deadline(s): Jan. 22, 2024
Proposals may only be submitted by the following:
- Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) - Two- and four-year IHEs (including community colleges) accredited in, and having a campus located in the US, acting on behalf of their faculty members. Special Instructions for International Branch Campuses of US IHEs: If the proposal includes funding to be provided to an international branch campus of a US institution of higher education (including through use of subawards and consultant arrangements), the proposer must explain the benefit(s) to the project of performance at the international branch campus, and justify why the project activities cannot be performed at the US campus.
- Non-profit, non-academic organizations: Independent museums, observatories, research laboratories, professional societies and similar organizations located in the U.S. that are directly associated with educational or research activities.
- For-profit organizations: U.S.-based commercial organizations, including small businesses, with strong capabilities in scientific or engineering research or education and a passion for innovation.
- State and Local Governments: State educational offices or organizations and local school districts.
- Tribal Governments: The governing body of any Indian or Alaska Native tribe, band, nation, pueblo, village, or community that the Secretary of the Interior acknowledges to exist as an Indian tribe under the Federally Recognized Indian Tribe List Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 479a, et seq.)
There are no restrictions or limits on the number of proposals per organization.
NOTE: Proposals involving multiple organizations are highly encouraged. These proposals may be submitted from a lead organization with other collaborating organizations included as subawardees as described in PAPPG Chapter II.E.3.a. These proposals may also be submitted as collaborative proposals from multiple organizations as described in PAPPG Chapter II.E.3.b. The proposal should specify how each collaborating organization will provide unique expertise, organizational capacity, and other resources that will, in aggregate, afford a comprehensive approach to partnering together to meet the needs of the ITEST program with respect to capacity-building, outreach, research, portfolio analysis, and communication.
In FY2024, NSF anticipates making one ITEST Resource Center award with a maximum duration of five years, contingent on availability of funds and receipt of competitive proposals. The total amount of NSF's investment in the Resource Center will depend upon the needs, plans, and opportunities offered by the Resource Center, as well as the availability of NSF funds.
Anticipated Funding Amount: $5,000,000
One award with a five-year duration.