K-12 STEM Outreach Grants
ABOUT:
South Dakota Biotech is pleased to offer grants of up to $1,000 to support innovative K-12 STEM outreach efforts in South Dakota. We anticipate awarding approximately five grants for the upcoming academic year.
PURPOSE:
The primary purpose of this grant is to enhance the quality and real-world relevance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in South Dakota's K-12 schools.
In line with South Dakota's Science & Technology (S&T) plan, this grant seeks to:
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Strengthen the STEM Pipeline: Foster student interest in STEM from an early age to help "grow your own" local talent.
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Connect Education to Industry: Create direct connections between students, teachers, and South Dakota's leading STEM companies and research institutions.
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Shape the Future Workforce: Demonstrate clear pathways to high-demand careers in fields like bioprocessing, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing, directly supporting the growth of South Dakota's bioeconomy.
The strongest applications will demonstrate how the proposed activity supports the long-term goal of building a robust science education system that prepares students for future opportunities right here in South Dakota.
Use the grant award to connect K-12 students with STEM careers. Examples: (a) conduct a STEM-related activity that relates to an SD Biotech member or other STEM company/organization and tie it back to a career opportunity, (b) organize a tour with a local facility or host an event that connects youth to a STEM career (c) Other outreach efforts such as STEM scholarships or purchasing science education materials, etc.
ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants include but are not limited to science, math, or CTE teachers at a public, private, or tribal K-12 school in South Dakota, university staff/faculty, and non-profit organizations interested in increasing their K-12 STEM outreach efforts.
DEADLINES:
Grant Application Due Date: September 11, 2025
Awardees Notified: September 30, 2025
GRANT APPLICATION
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