The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) has announced a funding opportunity through the U.S. Army Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Consortium (ASEC) Cooperative Agreement. This initiative, administered by the U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground, aims to provide comprehensive STEM learning experiences for students and educators. Through a coordinated effort of government, academic, and industry partners, ASEC seeks to attract and cultivate STEM talent nationwide. The cooperative agreement will have a total estimated funding of up to $277 million over a period of up to ten years, including an initial two-year base period with up to $52 million and four optional two-year renewal periods, ranging between $53 million and $60 million each.

ASEC aligns with the Army's broader STEM strategy to strengthen the nation’s workforce and sustain the technological leadership of the Department of Defense (DoD). This initiative encompasses a portfolio of programs engaging students from elementary school through college, exposing them to real-world STEM applications and career opportunities in defense and research. By leveraging Army scientists, engineers, and research facilities, the program offers mentorship, hands-on experiences, and competitions that enhance STEM literacy and career readiness. The program also extends support to military-connected students and their families.

The cooperative agreement will be awarded to a consortium led by a non-federal entity, such as a state or local government, an institution of higher education, or a nonprofit organization. Consortium members must have expertise in STEM education and outreach, with responsibilities spanning program management, data evaluation, communications, outreach, internship and fellowship administration, and student competitions. Programs within ASEC include the Gains in the Education of Math and Science (GEMS), eCYBERMISSION, Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS), and various STEM internship and fellowship opportunities.

Applications for this opportunity must be submitted via Grants.gov by March 28, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Interested applicants are encouraged to participate in a virtual Opportunity Day on January 30, 2025, for further details. Questions regarding the application must be submitted by February 14, 2025. The cooperative agreement is subject to federal regulations and requires compliance with the Federal STEM Strategic Plan, DoD STEM guidelines, and various data and privacy protection policies.

The selection process will evaluate proposals based on five factors: technical approach, management strategy, past performance, organizational credentials, and cost reasonableness. The technical plan is the most critical factor, emphasizing the applicant's ability to implement effective STEM programs, manage consortium operations, and leverage Army STEM assets. Successful applicants must also demonstrate past experience in STEM education administration and adherence to federal program evaluation standards.

Awardees will be required to submit periodic reports, including financial statements, program assessments, and performance evaluations. The awarded consortium will be responsible for ensuring compliance with child protection, privacy laws, and data management policies. The cooperative agreement is structured to enable direct and substantial Army involvement, ensuring that STEM education and outreach programs align with national defense workforce priorities. The agreement will officially commence on July 1, 2025, following the transition from the current recipient.