NASA initiated the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Project, also known as Space Grant, in 1989. Space Grant is a national network of colleges and universities. These institutions are working to expand opportunities for Americans to understand and participate in NASA’s aeronautics and space projects by supporting and enhancing science and engineering education, research and public outreach efforts.

The Space Grant national network includes over 850 affiliates from universities, colleges, industry, museums, science centers, and state and local agencies. These affiliates belong to one of 52 consortia in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

The 52 consortia fund fellowships and scholarships for students pursuing careers in science, mathematics, engineering and technology, or STEM, as well as curriculum enhancement and faculty development. Member colleges and universities also administer pre-college and public service education projects in their states.

View Space Grant Consortium Directors and Websites

Project Goal:

• Contribute to the nation’s science enterprise by funding education, research and public engagement projects through a national network of university-based Space Grant consortia.  

Objectives:

• Establish and maintain a national network of universities.
• Encourage cooperative programs among universities; aerospace industry; and Federal, state and local governments.
• Encourage interdisciplinary education, research and public service programs related to aerospace. 
• Recruit and train U.S. citizens, especially women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities.
• Promote a strong science, mathematics and technology education base from elementary through secondary levels.