Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT)

The Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program is a funding initiative led by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in partnership with the Micron Foundation. The program is managed by the NSF’s Directorate for STEM Education and the Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. This program seeks to broaden access to STEM careers by supporting experiential learning opportunities that enable individuals to pursue career pathways in rapidly evolving emerging technology fields. These fields include advanced manufacturing, advanced wireless technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum information science, semiconductors, and microelectronics. The overarching objective of the ExLENT program is to create inclusive, accessible pathways into emerging technology careers for learners from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. NSF recognizes that a dynamic and competitive STEM workforce must include those from both traditional and nontraditional educational routes, including individuals who have paused their education or pursued alternative career paths such as military service. The program emphasizes the importance of "learning-by-doing" in these fields, which often demand hands-on, real-world experience for successful entry and advancement. With this in mind, ExLENT supports immersive learning experiences that build technical competencies and promote career readiness. ExLENT offers three program tracks—Pivots, Beginnings, and Explorations—each tailored to different levels of experience and career readiness. The Pivots track is designed for individuals not currently enrolled in post-secondary education who possess transferable skills and are seeking to transition into emerging technology careers. The Beginnings track targets individuals with some foundational STEM knowledge, such as those holding certificates or associate degrees. The Explorations track serves individuals with little or no formal STEM education and aims to spark interest in STEM careers through accessible and supportive learning environments. All tracks require participants to be supported through cohort models, mentorship, and personalized career development. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, non-profit and for-profit organizations, Tribal Nations, state and local governments, and federally recognized research and development centers. There are no restrictions on the number of proposals that an institution or principal investigator may submit. Proposals must be submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov and must follow the applicable NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Letters of intent and preliminary proposals are not required. Full proposals are due by February 24, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. local time of the submitting organization. The anticipated total funding available for this solicitation is $30,000,000. NSF expects to award between 25 and 35 grants, with each grant providing up to $1,000,000 for a project duration of up to three years. Funding must be used primarily for participant support costs, including stipends, transportation, and subsistence. Projects are also required to include mentorship plans, evaluation frameworks, and sustainability strategies. All ExLENT awardees must utilize the NSF Education and Training Application (ETAP) system for managing participant data. For inquiries related to the ExLENT program, applicants may contact the NSF general inquiry line at (703) 292-5111 or email ExLENT@nsf.gov. Specific program officers include Rebecca Shearman (rshearma@nsf.gov), Karen Crosby (kcrosby@nsf.gov), and Mary Crowe (mcrowe@nsf.gov). Applicants should note that the solicitation replaces NSF 23-507 and reflects updates to program requirements and partnership details with Micron. Proposals will be evaluated based on intellectual merit, broader impacts, and additional criteria specific to the ExLENT program, such as accessibility, sustainability, and alignment with regional economies.