NSF Opens New Funding to Bring AI Education Into K-12 Classrooms

The National Science Foundation has launched three new funding opportunities aimed at embedding artificial intelligence education into American classrooms from kindergarten through 12th grade. The initiatives implement key provisions of the executive order "Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth," marking the first time the federal government has dedicated targeted funding at this scale specifically to K-12 AI literacy.

Up to $300K for Existing Grantees to Scale AI Programs

The first opportunity invites current NSF awardees with K-12 AI or computer science education experience to submit supplemental funding proposals of up to $300,000 — or 20 percent of the original award budget, whichever is less. These supplements target the refinement, scaling, or implementation of established K-12 AI education activities, including age-appropriate curricula, teacher professional development, and AI literacy tools.

The second Dear Colleague Letter focuses on expanding AI career pathways for high school students, supporting the creation of AI courses, certification programs, and dual enrollment opportunities that connect classroom learning directly to workforce demand. Community colleges and career-technical education programs are encouraged to partner with K-12 districts.

$25K-$750K Awards for AI in STEM Teaching

The third and broadest opportunity is the NSF STEM K-12 program, funding one-to-three-year research projects exploring how AI and emerging technologies can enhance STEM teaching and learning. Awards range from $25,000 to $750,000, with an emphasis on translating research advances into classroom practice.

NSF's announcement specifically calls for proposals that leverage AI tools to improve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics instruction — not just teaching about AI, but using AI to teach more effectively.

Schools, Researchers, and Nonprofits All Have Pathways

Education researchers, school districts, STEM nonprofits, and higher education institutions with K-12 outreach programs are all eligible under one or more of these initiatives. The supplemental funding route is fastest for organizations already holding NSF awards, while the STEM K-12 program opens the door for new applicants.

Deadline details and full eligibility criteria are available on the NSF website. Grant seekers building an AI education funding strategy can find additional federal and foundation opportunities on Granted.