In a world driven by technology and innovation, funding for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education has never been more critical.

For nonprofits, schools, and research institutions, securing the right grant can transform a promising idea into a high-impact program that shapes the next generation of leaders.

But navigating the competitive landscape of STEM funding is a major challenge.

Finding legitimate opportunities with future deadlines requires careful research and constant vigilance.

That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you.

This guide provides a verified, actionable list of four significant STEM education grants with deadlines in 2026. We’ve confirmed every detail directly from the source to ensure you’re working with the most accurate information available.

Key 2026 STEM Education Grants

Here are four vetted funding opportunities perfect for planning your 2026 grant-seeking strategy.

1. National Science Foundation (NSF): Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL)

The NSF is a cornerstone of federal research and education funding.

The AISL program is specifically designed to support STEM learning in out-of-school settings, making it ideal for museums, community organizations, and media producers.

Who Should Apply?

This grant is open to a wide range of applicants, including nonprofit, non-academic organizations (like museums), institutions of higher education, and consortia of organizations.

If your program educates the public on STEM outside of a formal classroom, this is for you.

What They Fund

The AISL program funds projects that advance the design and development of innovative STEM learning opportunities.

This includes research, a wide variety of learning environments (exhibits, after-school programs, online media, citizen science), and public engagement.

Pro Tip

The NSF places a heavy emphasis on “Broader Impacts.” Your proposal must clearly articulate how your project will benefit society and contribute to the achievement of specific, desired societal outcomes.

Don't treat this as an afterthought; it is a core review criterion.

2. U.S.

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

The EIR program provides funding to create, develop, and implement evidence-based, innovative approaches to improve student achievement. STEM is a consistent and absolute priority for this program, particularly for underserved students.

Who Should Apply?

Eligible applicants include Local Education Agencies (LEAs), State Education Agencies (SEAs), and nonprofit organizations in partnership with an LEA or a consortium of schools.

What They Fund

Mid-phase grants are for programs that have already demonstrated moderate evidence of effectiveness and are ready for scaling to a regional or larger level.

The focus is on projects that improve academic outcomes in STEM subjects for high-need students.

Pro Tip

Evidence is everything for an EIR grant.

Your application must be built on a solid foundation of prior research demonstrating your proposed model works.

The "What Works Clearinghouse" is an excellent resource to find studies that meet the Department of Education's rigorous standards.

3. Toshiba America Foundation: Grants for Grades 6-12

For educators looking for direct classroom support, the Toshiba America Foundation offers one of the most accessible and respected grant programs available.

Their focus is exclusively on helping teachers make STEM learning more engaging.

  • Official Grant Name: Toshiba America Foundation - Grants for Grades 6-12
  • Funding Amount: Over $5,000 (requests under $5,000 have a separate, rolling application)
  • Key Deadline: March 1, 2026
  • Application Link: https://www.toshiba.com/taf/612.jsp

Who Should Apply?

This grant is for individual middle and high school teachers in public or private schools.

Applicants must have a passion for making science and mathematics a hands-on experience for their students.

What They Fund

The foundation funds project-based learning.

They want to see innovative ideas for hands-on experiments and activities.

They do not fund teacher salaries, computers, or standard equipment.

Think robotics kits, specialized lab equipment, or materials for an engineering design challenge.

Pro Tip

Focus your proposal on the students.

Clearly explain what the students will do with the equipment or materials you are requesting. A compelling narrative about how the project will ignite student curiosity will be far more effective than a simple list of supplies.

4. PPG Foundation: Community Engagement Grants (Education Focus)

Many corporations have foundations dedicated to the communities where they operate. PPG, a global supplier of paints and coatings, has a strong foundation with a key focus on building the next generation of STEM talent.

Who Should Apply?

This grant is for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions located in communities where PPG has a significant presence.

Be sure to check their list of locations before applying.

What They Fund

Funding priorities include K-12 STEM programs that are hands-on and experiential, especially those serving diverse and low-income students.

They also support programs that introduce students to careers in STEM fields like chemistry, engineering, and materials science.

Pro Tip

Corporate funders like to see employee engagement.

If possible, research ways your program could involve PPG employee volunteers as mentors, speakers, or judges for a science fair.

Mentioning this potential for partnership can make your application stand out.

A Final Word on Your 2026 Grant Strategy

Securing major grants is a marathon, not a sprint.

The deadlines for these 2026 opportunities may seem far away, but the time to start preparing your projects, building partnerships, and outlining your proposals is now.

Keeping track of these multi-step processes is where many organizations falter.

Using a grant management platform can help you centralize your research, track deadlines, and collaborate with your team to ensure you submit the most competitive application possible.

Start planning today to make 2026 your most successful funding year yet.