Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation

The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) is a long-standing initiative by the National Science Foundation (NSF) designed to increase the number of underrepresented students attaining degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Established in 1991 and named after Congressman Louis Stokes, this program seeks to address persistent disparities in STEM degree attainment among underrepresented populations, including Blacks and African-Americans, Hispanic and Latino Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. The LSAMP program is housed within NSF’s Directorate for STEM Education and aligns with national strategic goals related to STEM workforce diversification and preparation for emerging technologies and priority areas. LSAMP operates as an alliance-based initiative, wherein a group of higher education institutions collaborate to develop and implement comprehensive strategies for improving recruitment, retention, transfer, and graduation of underrepresented students in STEM. The solicitation NSF 24-563 outlines seven distinct project types, including Alliance Development Grants (ADG), Bridge-to-the-Baccalaureate Alliances (B2B), STEM Pathways Implementation-Only Alliances (SPIO), STEM Pathways Research Alliances (SPRA), Bridges to STEM Graduate Degrees in National Priorities for both Master’s (BD-Master’s) and Doctoral (BD-Doctoral) levels, and STEM Networking Incentives and Engagement (NETWORKS). Each of these project types has unique eligibility criteria, budget limits, timelines, and deliverables, but they all contribute to the overarching LSAMP mission. Funding for these initiatives varies by project type. For instance, ADG awards can be up to $125,000 over 18 months, while B2B projects may receive up to $2 million over 5 years. SPIO and SPRA alliances can receive up to $5 million and $4 million respectively, each over 5 years. BD-Master’s and BD-Doctoral projects receive up to $597,000 and $1,173,000 respectively for three-year periods, supporting cohorts of six or twelve students. NETWORKS projects are awarded up to $600,000 over three years. All proposals must follow the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) and are expected to include data management plans, rigorous evaluations, dissemination strategies, and alignment with LSAMP's strategic objectives. Eligibility for LSAMP funding is strictly defined. Only U.S.-accredited institutions of higher education may apply, with different criteria depending on the project type. For example, only Master’s Comprehensive institutions may submit BD-Master’s proposals, while B2B alliances must be led by two-year colleges. NETWORKS proposals may also include nonprofits, for-profits, and museums, provided they collaborate with LSAMP institutions. PI requirements are also stringent, with cabinet-level administrators generally required to serve as principal investigators, especially for alliance projects. The program is not currently accepting new proposals as of July 2025, but the solicitation includes two deadlines for 2024: June 24 for BD-Master’s and NETWORKS projects, and November 15 for all other project types. The November deadline recurs annually, typically on the third Friday of the month. All applications must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov. The LSAMP team encourages intentional alliance formation, data-driven planning, and the submission of proposals that demonstrate national reach, meaningful collaboration, and measurable outcomes for increasing diversity in the STEM workforce. For general inquiries, potential applicants can contact the LSAMP program at lsamp_national@nsf.gov or by phone at 703-292-8632. The LSAMP initiative remains a critical pillar of NSF’s efforts to develop a more inclusive and robust national STEM enterprise. Its funding, structured support, and rigorous expectations provide a clear framework for institutions seeking to create impactful and sustainable change for underrepresented students in STEM.

Competitive proposals clearly articulate STEM outcomes, include diverse institutional partners, strong data tracking, and alignment with national STEM priorities.