In a world driven by innovation, fostering a love for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) in young learners has never been more critical.

But transformative educational programs—from robotics clubs to coding bootcamps—require significant financial support.

Finding and securing that funding can feel like a full-time job for nonprofit leaders and educators.

That’s why we’ve done the heavy lifting for you.

This guide cuts through the noise, providing a verified list of high-value STEM education grants with confirmed or anticipated deadlines in 2026. We’ve checked every link and confirmed every detail, so you can focus on what you do best: inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Key Foundation Grants for STEM Programs

Private and corporate foundations are often more flexible than federal funders and can be an excellent source of support for classroom projects, after-school programs, and curriculum development.

American Honda Foundation Youth Education Grant

The American Honda Foundation focuses on funding programs that serve youth in the areas of STEM, job training, and environmentalism.

They have a long history of supporting innovative educational initiatives across the United States.

  • Funding Amount: $20,000 to $75,000
  • Key Deadlines: This foundation uses a quarterly cycle.

The first deadline in 2026 will be February 1, 2026, followed by deadlines on May 1, August 1, and November 1.

  • Who's a Good Fit?: U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public school districts are eligible.

The foundation prioritizes programs that are imaginative, creative, and demonstrate a high potential for success.

Toshiba America Foundation Grants for Grades 6-12

The Toshiba America Foundation is dedicated to promoting quality science and mathematics education in U.S. schools.

They offer grants directly to teachers who have innovative ideas for hands-on projects for their students.

  • Funding Amount: Up to $5,000 (rolling applications) and over $5,000 (biannual deadlines)
  • Key Deadlines: For grants over $5,000, the next applicable deadlines are March 1, 2026, and September 1, 2026. Applications for grants under $5,000 are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply anytime.
  • Who's a Good Fit?: Classroom teachers in public or private (nonprofit) schools for grades 6-12. The foundation is looking for project-based learning that directly benefits students.
  • Application Link: Toshiba America Foundation 6-12 Grant Portal

Major Federal Funding Opportunities for STEM Education

Federal grants offer substantial funding but come with a more rigorous application process.

These opportunities are ideal for large-scale, evidence-based programs with the potential for significant impact.

National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program

This prestigious NSF program aims to address the critical need for K-12 STEM teachers by encouraging talented undergraduate STEM majors and professionals to pursue teaching careers.

It funds institutions to provide scholarships, stipends, and programmatic support.

  • Funding Amount: Varies by track; awards can exceed $1,200,000.
  • Anticipated Deadline: Based on previous cycles, the next deadline is anticipated to be August 27, 2026.

Always check the official solicitation for the confirmed date.

  • Who's a Good Fit?: Institutions of higher education (universities, colleges) or nonprofit organizations partnered with them.

This grant is not for individuals but for institutions that will then administer the scholarships.

Department of Education: Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Program

The EIR program provides funding to create, develop, implement, and scale evidence-based, field-initiated innovations to improve student achievement. STEM is consistently a competitive priority for this program.

  • Funding Amount: Varies significantly by grant type (Early-phase, Mid-phase, Expansion), often ranging from $4 million to $15 million.
  • Anticipated Deadline: The Department of Education typically releases a Notice Inviting Applications (NIA) in the spring.

Expect the 2026 competition deadlines to fall in April or May of 2026.

  • Who's a Good Fit?: Local educational agencies (LEAs), state educational agencies (SEAs), and nonprofit organizations in partnership with an LEA or a consortium of schools.
  • Application Link: Official EIR Program Page at ED.gov

3 Pro Tips for a Standout STEM Grant Application

Securing funding in the competitive STEM landscape requires more than just a good idea.

Here’s how to make your proposal shine.

1. Clearly Define Your Impact Metrics

Funders want to see a return on their investment.

Go beyond saying you'll "increase interest in STEM." Define specific, measurable outcomes.

For example:

  • "We will increase the percentage of participating female students who enroll in advanced placement science courses by 15% within two years."
  • "Our program will achieve a 90% proficiency rate on a standardized post-program assessment of robotics engineering principles."

2. Emphasize Hands-On, Inquiry-Based Learning

Modern STEM education is about doing, not just observing.

Your proposal should detail the hands-on activities students will engage in.

Describe the kits they will build, the experiments they will run, or the code they will write.

This demonstrates that you are implementing best practices in STEM pedagogy and creating a truly engaging experience.

3. Showcase Collaboration and Community Support

No program operates in a vacuum.

Highlight your partnerships with local universities, tech companies, science museums, or other community organizations.

Letters of support from these partners can significantly strengthen your application.

This shows funders that your project is well-supported, sustainable, and integrated into the community.

Finding the right grant is the first step on a long journey.

By targeting these verified opportunities and crafting a compelling, data-driven proposal, you can secure the resources needed to empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and leaders.