Strategic Outreach Initiatives
Funding for STEM organizations supporting students and teachers.
Army STEM Strategic Outreach Initiatives (SOI)
Strategic Outreach Initiatives (SOI) are a portfolio of Army STEM funding opportunities that are targeted to serve organizations in specific regions, of various program types, and with expertise in STEM topics that are relevant to the Army in order to enhance the existing Army STEM pipeline. These funding opportunities are meant to connect students (K-12 and beyond), parents, and teachers to programs, organizations, and Army STEM professionals to inspire their role in our nation’s defense and innovation future. Select for these Strategic Outreach Initiatives are guided by the SOI Advisory Board, formed of subject matter experts and industry representatives.
2027 SOI Funding
If you are an organization seeking more details, please fill out the interest form. Funding is awarded in the following categories, each one having an application and review process based on alignment with Army STEM priorities.
- [01]
Intensive Programs Funding
Intensive Programs Funding support after-school programs, camps, and other informal STEM education organizations that offer multi-day programs for K–12 students. Programs must build students’ knowledge and awareness of Army STEM careers and focus areas, such as cybersecurity, engineering, drones and autonomous vehicles, and AR/VR.
- [02]
Emerging STEM Workforce Funding
Emerging STEM Workforce Funding support education institutions that offer rigorous research and technical experiences for high school students and recent graduates to gain skills in research and technical fields. Programs must pair each participant with a mentor on a project in an Army STEM focus area that culminates in a presentation and abstract.
- [03]
STEM Workforce Ready Funding
STEM Workforce Ready Funding support organizations that offer online courses or boot camp-style classes for emerging STEM professionals, high school age and above. Programs must equip students with technical skills and accreditations required for careers in Army STEM fields, such as welding, soldering, and cybersecurity.
- [04]
Force Multipliers Funding
Force Multipliers Funding support professional development providers that offer courses and resources for K–12 teachers. Programs must increase teachers’ impact as Force Multipliers in preparing their students for Army STEM career pathways in focus areas such as scientific research, computer programming, AR/VR, and data science.
- [05]
STEM Fairs Pathway Funding
STEM Fairs Pathway Funding support State Science Academies and other STEM fair organizations that offer regional and state awards and events for students, primarily in grades 6–12. Programs must help students continue their pathway from local community or school events to regional fairs up to state- and national-level STEM competitions.
SOI Advisory Board
The SOI Advisory Board is a small group of professionals that represent a variety of STEM-related sectors. These individuals are passionate about increasing awareness and interest in STEM fields to enhance the nation’s STEM workforce. Using their deep knowledge and experience, board members will help inform decisions regarding the SOIs goals, funding proposals, and the Army STEM network of participants and partners.
A position on the SOI Advisory Board includes:
- Participating in quarterly virtual meetings and biannual in-person meetings
- Contributing to overall direction and mission alignment to strengthen the Army STEM pipeline
- Reviewing and providing recommendations on funding proposals and program investments
- Advising on workforce needs, education trends, or regional partnerships that can increase the impact of Army STEM experiences
In return, board members will have access to:
- Opportunities to grow your personal and professional networks
- Travel to in-person meetings, conferences, and Army STEM events
- Collaboration with stakeholders across sectors in a nationally significant STEM initiative
Meet our 2027 SOI Advisory Board Members
Michael G. Fantom
Michael G. Fantom is a nonprofit executive with more than 16 years of senior leadership in youth-serving organizations. He currently serves as Executive Director of New England FIRST, where he leads robotics and STEM education programs across six states. Working with schools, volunteers, and industry partners, he expands young people’s access to hands-on learning and builds pathways into technical careers. Previously, he served for 16 years as CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of New England, where he led organizational growth and regional partnerships. He brings combined experience in youth development and cross-sector collaboration, with a focus on building programs that reach more students.
Questions about SOI?
Reach out to the Strategic Outreach Initiatives team. We’d love to hear from you!