The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced the upcoming deadline for its flagship Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program. Focusing on two-year Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) and their partners, ATE supports the education and preparation of technicians for high-technology fields driving the national economy.

Program Overview

The ATE program emphasizes partnerships between academic institutions (grades 7–12 and higher education), industry, and economic development agencies to improve science and engineering technician education. Projects must be faculty-led and focus on credit-bearing courses and programs.

• Sponsoring Agency: National Science Foundation (NSF) | Directorate for STEM Education (EDU)
• Target Audience: Faculty and researchers in STEM, technical education, workforce development, and career & technical education (CTE).
• Funding Tracks:
  • Small Projects / Projects: Up to $1,000,000 to $1,200,000
  • Consortia & Centers: Up to $3,000,000 to $7,500,000
  • Conferences & Workshops: Up to $250,000

Key Deadlines

• CED Internal Deadline: September 24, 2026 (for internal review, budget routing, and partner agreements)
• Sponsor Application Deadline: October 1, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. local time (First Thursday in October, annually thereafter)

Scope & Key Focus Areas

ATE proposals generally center on technician education in advanced technology fields (e.g., biotechnology, IT/cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, microelectronics, and energy):

• Curriculum & Program Development: Creating or updating credit-bearing courses and instructional materials aligned with industry needs.
• Faculty & Teacher Professional Development: Enhancing the technical knowledge and pedagogical skills of secondary and postsecondary instructors.
• Articulated Pathways: Building seamless educational transitions from secondary schools to two-year colleges and four-year universities.
• Research on Technician Education: Investigating the effectiveness of instructional strategies, recruitment efforts, or retention practices in technical fields.

How to Apply

For full details, submission guidelines, and solicitation requirements, visit the official NSF ATE Opportunity Page.

Faculty planning to submit a proposal or collaborate with community college partners are encouraged to notify the CED Research Office early to coordinate budget prep and institutional support.