The bill would direct the National Science Foundation to award competitive grants to eligible entities for programs that increase participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among women, underrepresented groups, and people with disabilities. Grant activities could include workshops, mentoring, internships, school outreach, and efforts to recruit and retain underrepresented faculty.
Students, STEM professionals, and faculty in the groups named in the bill could be served by grant-funded programs. Eligible entities could apply to the National Science Foundation; the bill does not specify which types of entities qualify.
The bill authorizes $15 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030. These are authorized amounts, not a statement that the money has been appropriated.
The bill's findings say that STEM participation and retention are lower for several groups and state that diverse STEM teams innovate at higher rates. The bill seeks to address participation through grants and related programs.
No publicly available information.