The **Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP)** program supports higher education institutions in increasing the number of STEM baccalaureate and graduate degrees awarded to students from underrepresented groups, referred to as LSAMP populations. This program aims to diversify the STEM workforce by fostering academic success through alliances, partnerships, and innovative strategies. LSAMP prioritizes areas of national importance, including emerging technologies such as quantum science, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Proposals are expected to incorporate creative strategies, evidence-based practices, and collaborations that prepare students for 21st-century STEM careers.

The program offers funding for several project types: **Alliance Development Grants (ADG)** to conceptualize and develop new alliances, **Bridge-to-the-Baccalaureate (B2B)** alliances to support student transfers from community colleges to four-year institutions, **STEM Pathways Implementation-Only (SPIO)** projects to strengthen recruitment and retention strategies, and **STEM Pathways Research Alliances (SPRA)** to disseminate new knowledge on broadening participation. Additionally, the program includes **Bridge to STEM Graduate Degrees (BD-Master’s and BD-Doctoral)**, which provide financial and academic support for LSAMP alumni pursuing graduate studies, and **STEM Networking Incentive and Engagement (NETWORKS)** projects to establish or enhance research networks.

Eligibility varies by project type. Institutions of higher education are primary applicants, with specific criteria for lead institutions depending on the project focus. Nonprofit organizations, small businesses, and other entities may participate in certain NETWORKS projects. Alliance proposals must include partnerships with at least four institutions, ensuring a balance of quality and shared benefit. Lead institutions must typically be U.S.-based and accredited, and projects must directly address the recruitment and retention of LSAMP populations in STEM fields.

Funding levels and durations vary by project type. For example, ADG grants provide up to $125,000 for 18 months, B2B alliances up to $2 million over five years, and SPRA alliances up to $4 million over five years. Graduate degree projects offer stipends and cost-of-education allowances, with $597,000 for BD-Master’s and $1.173 million for BD-Doctoral support over three years. NETWORKS projects can request up to $600,000 over three years. Budgets must include travel for annual LSAMP meetings and detailed justifications for expenditures.

Proposals must align with NSF merit review criteria, emphasizing intellectual merit and broader impacts. They should demonstrate innovative approaches, commitment to diversity, and plans for sustainability. SPRA projects require a robust research component and institutionalization assessment, while graduate degree projects