Growing in STEM Mini-Grants

The Growing in STEM Grants are administered by the South Carolina Coalition for Mathematics & Science (SCCMS) with support from the S²TEM Centers SC. This initiative provides targeted mini-grants to support science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) projects in South Carolina’s PreK–12 educational settings. The overarching aim is to promote engagement, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning among students, while aligning projects with the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. These grants are designed to encourage meaningful STEM integration that promotes World Class Knowledge, World Class Skills, and Life and Career Characteristics, with an emphasis on math-forward educational design. The program is intended exclusively for educators in South Carolina, including those working in both public and private PreK–12 schools, as well as out-of-school learning environments. Projects must be completed by April 30, 2027, and are required to incorporate multiple facets of STEAM learning. Applications should clearly articulate educational deliverables, demonstrate how they align with state learning profiles, and describe measurable indicators of success. Preference is given to proposals that include a strong math connection, particularly those that identify and apply specific math standards within a cross-disciplinary context. The application review process involves a regional panel of business, education, and community leaders who recommend one awardee from each of the five S²TEM Centers SC regions. Applicants may request a maximum award amount of $2,500. In addition, successful grantees will receive one day of onsite, STEM-focused professional learning from S²TEM Centers SC Education Specialists, a service valued at $1,500. While full funding need not be requested, return on investment is a key consideration in evaluating proposals. Grant funds can be used for materials, transportation, event participation, and speakers or experts (excluding salaries for school or district employees). Funds may not replace existing budgeted items or be used as salary supplements. Any changes to the approved project must be communicated to the grant committee for approval. The application process opens August 4, 2025, and closes December 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Award announcements will be made by February 13, 2026, and awardees will be recognized at STEM Education Day at the State Capitol on March 25, 2026. All grant activities and spending must be completed by April 30, 2027, and a final report, including receipts, is due May 28, 2027. Proposals must be pre-approved by the applicant's principal or organizational site leader, and all applications must be submitted online. No mailed or emailed submissions are accepted. Proposals will be assessed using a rubric that evaluates connections to the Profile of the SC Graduate, implementation of STEM integration, clarity of goals and deliverables, evaluation methods, resource stewardship, and depth of engagement. Projects that clearly articulate math integration and standards will receive bonus points. Proposal presentation tips include avoiding use of personal or school names in the narrative and clearly defining educational terminology for non-educator reviewers. All inquiries about project eligibility or budget guidelines should be directed to grants@sccoalition.org. Professional learning arrangements for funded projects should be coordinated with Alice Gilchrist, Director of Client Services. Educators interested in applying are encouraged to consult the Planning and Budget Worksheets prior to submission to ensure alignment with program guidelines.

Avoid using personal or school names within application narrative. Clarify any specific educational terminology. Make strong real-world connections and highlight math integration for better scoring.