The purpose of this program is to support integrated education/teaching and extension/outreach projects that increase participation by women and underrepresented minorities from rural areas in STEM. NIFA intends for this program to address educational needs, as determined by each institution, within broadly defined areas of food and agricultural sciences and their allied disciplines.
Applications recommended for funding must highlight and emphasize the development of a competent and qualified workforce in the food and agricultural enterprise. WAMS-funded projects should improve the economic health and viability of rural communities by developing education and extension initiatives that focus on new and emerging employment opportunities in STEM occupations for women and underrepresented minorities. Projects that contribute to the economic viability of rural communities are also encouraged.
For the Women and Minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Fields (WAMS) program, NIFA will support projects with a target audience of K-14 students (kindergarten through twelfth grade plus two years of post-secondary schooling (e.g., vocational technical institutions or community or junior colleges)).
WAMS project activities must support the creation, adaptation, and adoption of learning materials and teaching strategies to operationalize what we know about how students learn. WAMS-funded projects shall also focus on imparting both technical knowledge as well as leadership and interpersonal skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, as these are abilities expected by employers.
For additional information on program purpose and priorities, see https://www.nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2023-02/FY23-WAMS-RFA-508-CC.pdf#page=6.
Project and Grant Types: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2023-02/FY23-WAMS-RFA-508-CC.pdf#page=11
Estimated Total Program Funding:
