GrantTalk, episode 25 is live! Host, Libby Hikind, founder and CEO of GrantWatch, is joined by Samantha Walters, Senior Strategist of Colocation America. Unlike a foundation or a government agency, Colocation America is a corporation that is actively giving back through grants, specifically with their STEM Innovation Grants.
What is STEM and Why Is It Important?
Samantha explains that STEM education focuses on building critical hard skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As an IT company, Colocation America recognizes the critical role STEM plays in shaping the future workforce. Samantha also asserts that STEM education is not just about the hard skills, but also about integrating soft skills. This creates a holistic learning environment that encourages innovation and problem-solving. “It’s about creating the next generation of staff, clients, and community members who will contribute to the world in meaningful ways,” Samantha explains.
The STEM Innovation Grant
The STEM Innovation grants from Colocation America is designed to support K-12 nonprofit schools and school districts. However, they also support other institutions and organizations who have related programming like libraries and museums. They look for programs that integrate science with the arts like coding projects and even marine biology. These initiatives offer students experiences they might not otherwise have, particularly in underserved communities.
Who Can Apply STEM Innovation Grants?
Samantha makes it clear that the grants are open to nonprofit schools and school districts across the United States. While the focus remains on supporting programs that provide unique STEM learning opportunities, they accept applications from both established organizations and those just starting up as well. “It’s really about giving kids an opportunity they wouldn’t otherwise have,” Samantha said.
STEM Grant Amounts and Availability
The grants range from $1,500 to $7,500, with 4 to 15 grants awarded each year. The exact amount and number of grants varies depending on the quality of the application and the scope of the program. Samantha adds that their grant committee, which includes various community members and staff, carefully selects the recipients. This collaborative approach ensures that the grants go to programs that truly make a difference.
STEM Innovation Grant Application Process and Deadlines
Note: The deadline for this year’s funding has already passed. However, the great thing about this grant is that it’s cyclical in nature. It will come around again for those qualified candidates who want to apply.
Samantha emphasizes the importance of showcasing what makes each K-12 STEM program unique. Applicants should focus on how their programs blend hard skills with problem-solving and teamwork. One of the key components is a 1,500-word application, which she acknowledges is both a challenge and a benefit. This year, to assist applicants, Colocation America had mandatory “Lunch and Learn” calls, where they discussed what makes a strong application.
The deadline for this year’s grant application was August 12th, but awardees won’t be announced until October 14th. Once awarded, recipients will have until September 25th, 2025, to use the funds, providing ample time to implement their projects.
Closing Thoughts
For those interested in applying or learning more about similar opportunities, staying connected with GrantWatch and Colocation America is essential.
Libby closes the interview with solid advice to listeners and subscribers. “If you’re passionate about STEM education and want to learn more from experts like Samantha, be sure to subscribe to GrantTalk. Your feedback and suggestions for future interviews are always welcome!”
From all of us here at GrantTalk: Thank you, Samantha, for the incredible work you’re doing, and we hope this grant inspires many more innovative STEM programs!
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