The NIFTY project goal is to connect NASA STEM role models with youth-serving STEM programs for underrepresented youth (ages 9-14) in STEM, with a critical focus on girls and other historically excluded genders in STEM, which includes cis girls, trans youth, gender non-conforming, and/or non-binary youth, youth of color, and their families. Outreach programs will run July – December 2023 and January – June 2025. Each partner will receive $5,000 for participating in the project, including pre-program training and evaluation activities.

We are looking for 20 SciGirls partners to participate in the NIFTY program. Prior to beginning your application, we strongly encourage you to review the eligibility criteria and scoring rubric. Successful applicants will have clear plans to reach groups historically underrepresented in STEM fields, specifically and demonstrate a desire to hold youth-focused space science-themed programs that include the use of NASA STEM professional role models. Geographic diversity will also be considered in the selection. Partners must commit to the programming requirements listed in the application which includes running NASA-themed STEM programs with 10 youth (ages 9-14), open to other family members, and involves at least one NASA STEM role model.

If selected, Partners will receive a $2,500 stipend each year, professional development for two staff, space science STEM activities and materials for educators, youth, and families, to support programs, and support in connecting with trained NASA STEM role models. The NIFTY project is funded by NASA.

The program application is open through February 18, 2022

Please contact Julie Noyes at jnoyes@tpt.org if you have any questions.