Grant program for research and capacity building of makerspaces

(a) Establishment The Director of the National Science Foundation shall award grants on a competitive basis to institutions of higher education, or consortia of such institutions, to support the research and development of makerspaces to assist in the formation of a STEM-capable workforce. (b) Use of funds A grant awarded under this section may be used for— (1) research on the effectiveness of makerspaces in engaging students and the community in STEM skills and in teaching and learning, and the development, compilation, and dissemination of best practices on the use of makerspaces for STEM learning and workforce preparedness; (2) equipment to achieve the purpose under paragraph (1); and (3) any other activities the Director considers appropriate. (c) Priority In selecting grant recipients under this section, the Director shall give priority to applicants that— (1) apply in partnership with one or more entities that are— (A) a workforce development component; (B) a high-need local education agency as described in section 9(b)(3) of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n(b)(3)); or (C) an independent nonprofit or academic makerspace; (2) consist of one or more entities that are— (A) a community college; or (B) a historically Black college or university or other minority-serving institution of higher education; or (3) apply in partnership with or consist of an entity that is— (A) described in paragraph (1) or (2); and (B) operates within a rural community. (d) Limitation Funds provided through a grant under this section may not be used for the construction of a physical building or facility to hold a makerspace unless the Director determines that such construction is necessary for reasons of safety or the use of relevant equipment. (e) Technical assistance The Director may provide technical assistance to entities receiving a grant or entities seeking such a grant under this section.