EcosySTEM | STEM Action Center Mini-Grants

Geographic Scope: Idaho (with emphasis on regional balance and rural communities)

Overview:
Regional Mini-Grants are a collaborative funding opportunity designed to strengthen STEM learning experiences and career connections for learners across Idaho. These small, regionally balanced grants support existing programs and projects that meaningfully connect STEM learning opportunities to career and workforce pathways.

Eligible Applicants:

• Public education
• Non-profit organizations
• Community organizations with STEM-related projects
• All projects must comply with Idaho state regulations and guidelines applicable to public funding

Focus Areas:

• Strengthen STEM learning experiences
• Career connections and workforce development
• Enhance or expand ongoing STEM-related projects
• Increase career awareness and workforce readiness
• STEM career exposure

Prioritized Funding Criteria:
Projects demonstrating:

• Strong alignment with EcosySTEM and STEM Action Center's shared goal of boosting awareness of learning and workforce opportunities
• Increased career awareness, workforce readiness, and exposure to STEM careers
• Service or intentional support for rural communities
• Meaningful partnerships, particularly with industry and workforce
• Clear demonstration that majority of requested funds directly support STEM learning and career connection components
• How grant funds will strengthen, expand, or increase impact
• Contribution to longer-term outcomes for youth, educators, workforce, and communities

Funding Details:

• Award Maximum: $2,500
• Award Minimum: $500
• Award Notification: By March 30
• Typical Cycle: Open February 20, Close March 15

Contact:

• Technical questions: Amanda Paterson at stem.admin@stem.idaho.gov
• Project alignment guidance: EcosySTEM Hub Coordinators (available for project guidance, partnership development, and application support)

Application Process

1. Read the Grant Overview Guide - Provides all information needed for a successful grant proposal
2. Create an account on STEM Action Center's Euna Grants Platform
3. Submit applications before the deadline (typically March 15)

Support Available

EcosySTEM Hub Coordinators are available to provide guidance on:

• Project alignment with funding priorities
• Strengthening STEM learning and career connection components
• Clarifying and increasing partnerships and regional impact
• Preparing strong and complete applications and budgets

Technical Support

For technical questions related to application submission: Amanda Paterson at stem.admin@stem.idaho.gov