National Science Foundation Fostering Interdisciplinary Networks to Develop Emergent and Responsive Solutions Foundry

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. Through this funding opportunity titled Fostering Interdisciplinary Networks to Develop Emergent and Responsive Solutions Foundry, NSF aims to advance innovative, collaborative approaches to addressing persistent challenges in education and workforce development. The program aligns with national priorities to strengthen STEM learning and workforce readiness, particularly in the context of rapid technological change and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The purpose of this program is to support interdisciplinary teams that bring together K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers to co-design and implement solutions that improve learning outcomes and better prepare students for an AI-driven future. The initiative emphasizes the importance of early exposure to artificial intelligence concepts and tools, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and long-term career readiness. Projects are expected to address real-world challenges identified by students, families, and educators, ensuring that proposed solutions are grounded in lived experiences and educational needs. Funding supports a two-phase structure consisting of Planning and Development stages. Planning grants allow teams to explore specific focus areas, establish partnerships, and design initial concepts. Only recipients of Planning grants are eligible to apply for Development funding, which supports scaling, implementation, and refinement of promising solutions. While specific award amounts are not provided, the total estimated program funding is $8,500,000, and funds are intended to support research, technology development, and collaborative implementation efforts. Eligible applicants include a broad range of U.S.-based entities such as nonprofit non-academic organizations, state and local governments, institutions of higher education, and federally recognized Tribal Nations. Proposals must be submitted by an eligible organization, and teams must include representation from three required stakeholder groups: K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers. One member of this leadership team must serve as the Principal Investigator. There are no degree requirements for the PI, but unaffiliated individuals are not eligible to apply independently. The application process is conducted through Grants.gov or Research.gov and requires submission of standard NSF proposal components, including project descriptions, budgets, and supporting documentation. Applications must comply with NSF formatting and submission requirements, including PDF formatting and adherence to proposal guidelines. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds. Proposals are evaluated based on NSF’s standard merit review criteria, including intellectual merit and broader impacts, with emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and potential for scalable impact. The opportunity was originally posted on March 23, 2026, with a current application deadline of November 18, 2026, following an extension from the original May deadline. NSF recommends early submission to allow time for validation and corrections. Awards are expected to support multi-year projects, although the exact performance period is not specified. For assistance, applicants may contact NSF grants.gov support via email. The program is part of a broader federal effort to advance AI education and workforce development, consistent with recent executive and legislative priorities.

Ensure strong interdisciplinary collaboration across K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers and clearly align project outcomes with AI education and workforce development priorities