NDEP STEM Open NFO

The Department of Defense (DoD), through the Washington Headquarters Services Acquisition Directorate (WHS/AD), has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NFO) for its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) National Defense Education Program (NDEP). This funding opportunity supports innovative mechanisms that implement and assess STEM education, outreach, and workforce initiatives aligned with national defense priorities. Managed under the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)), the program emphasizes development across the PreK-to-career continuum to meet the evolving needs of the national security mission. The NFO is structured as a continuously open announcement through February 8, 2028, with periodic amendments and Industry/Opportunity Day events outlining specific calls for white papers and full applications. Funding initiatives are primarily aligned with critical DoD technology areas and include topics such as STEM education and outreach, support at two-year institutions and community colleges, manufacturing engineering education, and scholarship programs. Other focus areas include strategic partnerships, program evaluations, and data analytics. Applications must propose impactful programs that align with DoD strategic priorities and demonstrate capacity for sustainability beyond the funding period. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based industry, non-profit institutions, higher education institutions, state and local educational agencies, and consortia. Specific exclusions apply to foreign entities, DoD laboratories, and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), although some may participate through teaming arrangements. Senior Military Colleges and University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs) may apply unless restricted by contract. The NFO also welcomes applications from religious organizations and requires disclosure of any organizational conflicts of interest. Application involves a two-step process: submission of a white paper followed by a full application upon invitation. White papers must include sections such as a project summary, technical concept, cost estimates, and relevance to topics of interest. Full applications must be submitted through Grants.gov and include detailed project narratives, budgets, and compliance documentation. All proposals will undergo technical, budgetary, and risk reviews. Awards will be granted based on technical merit, alignment with DoD missions, and the availability of funds. The program contact for this funding opportunity is Jonathan Bertsch, Grants Officer at WHS/AD, reachable via email at jonathan.e.bertsch.civ@mail.mil. Key administrative deadlines include the continuously open application period until February 8, 2028. However, applicants must adhere to specific white paper and application deadlines as announced in individual amendments or events. Reporting requirements for awarded projects include monthly, semi-annual, and annual financial and performance reports, as well as final closeout documentation.