grants

ATE Programme 2026—$74M Grant

The Advanced Technological Education (ATE) programme supports education of technicians in high-technology fields, driven by partnerships between academic institutions and industry. With a focus on two-year Institutions of Higher Education, it aims to improve technician education through curriculum d

deadline: 1 October 2026 (annual deadline)
funding: $74 million (FY2026 awards)
host: National Science Foundation (NSF)
source-url: https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/ate-advanced-technological-education
apply-url: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/

The Advanced Technological Education (ATE) programme is designed to improve the education of technicians in science and engineering fields. It supports partnerships between two-year institutions of higher education, academic institutions, industry, and economic development agencies. With a budget of $74M, the programme aims to promote improvement in technician education through various activities such as curriculum development, professional development of college faculty and secondary school teachers, and career pathway development.

Overview

The ATE programme focuses on supporting the education of technicians in high-technology fields that drive the nation's economy. It involves partnerships between academic institutions, industry, and economic development agencies to promote improvement in the education of science and engineering technicians.

  • Supports curriculum development for technician education
  • Encourages professional development of college faculty and secondary school teachers
  • Supports career pathway development for both students and incumbent workers
  • Partnerships with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) and Manufacturing USA Institutes are encouraged
  • Supports applied research projects that advance the knowledge base related to technician education

Eligibility

The ATE programme encourages proposals from Minority Serving Institutions as well as other institutions that support the recruitment, retention, and completion of diverse talent in STEM technician education programmes.

  • Two-year Institutions of Higher Education are the primary focus
  • Partnerships with industry and economic development agencies are required
  • Courses and programmes must be credit-bearing

Benefits

  • Supports the education of technicians in high-technology fields
  • Encourages partnerships between academic institutions, industry, and economic development agencies
  • Funding of $74M to support programme activities

How to Apply

To apply for the ATE programme, proposers must submit their proposals through the NSF website. Proposals should include a clear description of the project, including its goals, objectives, and expected outcomes.

  • A project description that includes goals, objectives, and expected outcomes
  • A detailed budget and budget justification
  • Letters of commitment from partners and collaborators

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of the ATE programme?

The primary focus of the ATE programme is to support the education of technicians in high-technology fields that drive the nation's economy.

What types of institutions are eligible to apply for the ATE programme?

Two-year Institutions of Higher Education are the primary focus, but partnerships with other academic institutions, industry, and economic development agencies are also encouraged.

What is the budget for the ATE programme?

The ATE programme has a budget of $74M to support programme activities.

What types of activities are supported by the ATE programme?

The ATE programme supports curriculum development, professional development of college faculty and secondary school teachers, career pathway development, and applied research projects that advance the knowledge base related to technician education.

How can I get more information about the ATE programme?

More information about the ATE programme can be obtained by contacting the programme staff at [email protected] or by visiting the NSF website.

What is the deadline for applying to the ATE programme?

The deadline for applying to the ATE programme is not specified, but proposers are encouraged to submit their proposals as early as possible.