Opportunity
Simpler Grants.gov #NSF26507
NSF FINDERS FOUNDRY Grant for Innovative K-12 AI Education Solutions
Buyer
U.S. National Science Foundation
Posted
March 23, 2026
Respond By
November 18, 2026
Identifier
NSF26507
NAICS
541715, 541511, 813211
The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is seeking proposals for the FINDERS FOUNDRY program to advance K-12 education through innovative, technology-driven solutions, with a strong emphasis on early artificial intelligence (AI) exposure. - Government Buyer: - U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) - OEMs and Vendors: - NSF is the only organization mentioned; no commercial OEMs or vendors are specified - Products/Services Requested: - Development and scaling of evidence-based practices, tools, and technologies for K-12 learning and workforce development - Focus on solutions that improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a digital, AI-driven future - No specific products or part numbers requested; emphasis is on services and solution development - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Proposals must be submitted by teams including at least one K-12 educator, one technologist, and one researcher - Eligible applicants: non-profit, non-academic organizations, state/local governments, higher education institutions, tribal nations - Two-phase structure: Planning and Development; only Planning grant awardees may submit Development proposals - Justification required for any international branch campus involvement - Total estimated funding is $8,500,000
Description
The NSF FINDERS FOUNDRY program supports collaboration among K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers to develop innovative solutions to persistent challenges in learning and workforce development. The program focuses on creating and scaling evidence-based practices, tools, and technologies to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a digital, AI-driven future, emphasizing early exposure to AI. It encourages partnerships across sectors including schools, universities, industry, government, and nonprofits to co-design responsive, technology-based solutions. The program includes two phases: Planning and Development, with only teams awarded Planning grants eligible to submit Development proposals. It aligns with national priorities such as the Executive Order 14277 and the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.