North Carolina Science Museums Grant Program

The North Carolina Science Museums Grant Program is a state-funded initiative designed to support and enhance science museums and science education centers throughout North Carolina. Administered under the authority of the North Carolina General Statutes, specifically G.S. 143B-135.227, the program provides financial assistance to eligible institutions that promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. With annual funding exceeding $2,400,000, the program plays a critical role in strengthening public access to high-quality science learning opportunities and advancing educational enrichment across the state. The primary purpose of the grant is to ensure that science museums and children's museums can sustain and expand their operations, exhibits, and educational programming. Funds are intended to enhance public engagement with STEM disciplines, encourage innovation, and support institutions that demonstrate strong community impact. The program prioritizes applicants that contribute to statewide educational objectives and that broaden access to science education, particularly in economically distressed communities. By investing in museum infrastructure and programming, the state seeks to foster curiosity, lifelong learning, and workforce readiness in STEM fields. Funding allocations are determined based on criteria established by the state government. These criteria include the economic distress ranking of the applicant’s county as determined by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the proportion of operating funds generated from non-state revenue sources, attendance-to-population ratios, collaboration with other museums, and geographic proximity to similar institutions. Award maximums are determined by county tier designation, with Tier One counties eligible for up to $75,000, Tier Two counties eligible for up to $60,000, and Tier Three counties eligible for up to $50,000. Funds are distributed annually within a biennial budget cycle. Grant funds are subject to specific restrictions to ensure responsible stewardship of public resources. Allowable expenditures must directly support the mission and activities of the museum. Funds may not be used for deficit reduction, capital expenditures, contingency funds, hospitality or entertainment costs, fundraising activities, art sales, interest on loans, litigation expenses, lobbying, or academic tuition. Matching funds are not required for participation in the program, making the opportunity accessible to qualifying organizations with varying financial capacities. To be eligible, applicants must be science centers, science museums, or children’s museums physically located in North Carolina. Institutions must be open to the public for at least 120 days annually for a minimum of two years and must provide exhibits focused on science or STEM education. Eligible entities must be municipal or nonprofit organizations that are exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Additionally, each museum must employ at least one full-time professional staff member and maintain a governing body with a mission statement emphasizing science or STEM education. The application process consists of a single-step submission. Applicants are required to submit a complete application form detailing their eligibility, proposed use of funds, and measurable outcomes that demonstrate the effectiveness of the grant. Supporting documentation may include partnership letters from other recipients within the North Carolina Science Museums Grant Program. Applications for the most recent cycle were accepted from May 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. The program operates on a two-year cycle aligned with the state’s biennial budget, with award notifications issued annually following budget certification. This recurring funding opportunity provides ongoing support for institutions dedicated to advancing science education throughout North Carolina.

Prioritize measurable outcomes, demonstrate financial sustainability, and highlight partnerships with other North Carolina science museums.