National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF), established in 1950 and located in Alexandria, Virginia, is an independent federal agency dedicated to advancing fundamental research and education across all scientific and engineering disciplines. With an annual budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF operates America's Seed Fund, which allocates nearly $200 million each year to support startups and small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This initiative provides non-dilutive funding of up to $1.5 million to assist in research and development efforts, thereby facilitating the transformation of scientific discoveries into commercially viable products and services. By helping to de-risk technology, the NSF plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges through scientific advancements.

James Donlon

Program Director

Sean L. Jones

Assistant Director for Mathematical and Physical Sciences

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Ben Schrag Ph.D

Program Director and Policy Liaison, SBIR / STTR

Past deals in Child Care

MWCC provides relevant, high quality learning opportunities and services that respond to diverse student and community needs, foster student success, and stimulate civic, workforce, and economic vitality.
Northwest Arkansas Community College is a full-service community college in Bentonville, Arkansas, that offers transfer and professional academics, remedial and advanced programs, college life activities and a full range of student services. Academics include professional degrees in healthcare and business, such as: * Marketing * Nursing * Physical Therapy * Respiratory Therapy Other programs of study include transfer degrees in the arts and sciences, such as: * Drama * Film * Fine Arts * International Languages * Environmental Regulation * Psychology * Sociology High-performing degree candidates also have the option of enrolling in the school’s honors program. North Arkansas Community College has an adult education division, as well, which offers GED-prep and classes in ESL and Computer Literacy. Student life activities are available to students in all divisions. Some examples of these activities include performing arts clubs, academic and professional clubs and other types of student organizations. The career services division sponsors a range of activities, including career readiness workshops, job fairs and on-campus recruiting seminars. They also provide career counseling and job-search assistance. Most programs have an open admissions policy, which allows anyone with a high school diploma or GED to enroll, simply by filling out an admissions application. Healthcare programs have additional requirements. Students may receive academic, departmental and other types of scholarships, as well as federal financial aid awards like grants and loans.

CodeCrew

Grant in 2021
CodeCrew empowers kids from underrepresented communities to be tech innovators and leaders through practical, hands-on computer science training. Today, they have multiple summer camps, multiple after-school programs, eight in-school electives programs, a young adult Code School, and a number of special events.

HeyKiddo

Grant in 2021
HeyKiddo is a suite of tech-based tools designed to help parents and caregivers develop leadership, social and emotional skills in their kiddos.

The Natural Nipple

Grant in 2021
Developer of breastfeeding nipple products designed to eliminate nipple confusion by providing a bottle nipple that matches every shape. The company's products are similarly shaped to the natural breast and closely replicate the natural maternal flow rate of breast milk so that babies can alternate between the bottle and the breast easily, enabling mothers to overcome the primary barrier to breastfeeding and improve their health.

Cognitive ToyBox

Grant in 2021
Cognitive ToyBox, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing early childhood education by creating evidence-based games and applications that assess kindergarten readiness in children. Founded by Tammy Kwan and Dr. Brenden Lake in 2014 and based in Brooklyn, New York, the company develops mobile solutions for both Android and iOS platforms. Its technology combines observational methods with game-based learning, allowing educators to collect real-time data on children's cognitive skills and progress. Supported by organizations such as the National Science Foundation and the Robin Hood Foundation, Cognitive ToyBox aims to ensure that all children are well-prepared for the challenges of kindergarten through innovative assessment tools and engaging educational experiences.
Quisigamond Community College, located in Worcester, MA, serves over 13,000 students and offers more than 70 associate degree and certificate programs. In addition to the traditional student academic program, Quisigamond offers online classes specifically geared toward working students or professionals who want to enhance their skills or build new ones. Those classes include Business Administration, Fire Science, Criminal Justice, Computer Science and Hospitality Management. Certificates are available in business administration/insurance or medical office options, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Early Childhood Education, and Law Enforcement. Various healthcare certificates are also offered including Surgery Technology, basic Paramedic and Dental Assisting. Associate Degrees are offered in Deaf Studies, Biomedical Engineering, Electromechanical Technology, Telecommunications Technology and Energy Utility. Quisigamond has developed outstanding relationships with potential employers in the central Massachusetts area including Intel, Verizon, Kennedy Diecasting, UPS and Ken-Weld and sponsors regular collaborations for workforce training. The Children’s School is available for enrolled students and members of the community with children between the ages of 2 to 5 years and also operates as a training center for Early Childhood Education students . The Division of Continuing Education hosts non-credit courses, workshops and seminars that are widely attended by the community and students.
Boston Children's Museum, founded in 1913 by the Science Teachers' Bureau, is the second oldest children's museum in the world and a significant educational institution in Boston, Massachusetts. As an independent non-profit foundation, it is dedicated to promoting the healthy development of all children, enabling them to reach their potential and contribute to society. The museum provides engaging, hands-on experiences that foster joyful discovery, instill an appreciation for the world, and develop foundational skills. For over a century, it has served as a vital resource for both children and educators, facilitating the exchange of ideas and materials that enhance the teaching of science and learning. The foundation's operations are overseen by a Board of Trustees, ensuring its mission remains aligned with its commitment to childhood education and development.

MathBRIX

Grant in 2019
MathBRIX is a for-profit EdTech business, with initial support from the National Science Foundation Small Business Research Program (NSF/SBIR). The venture is developing a SaaS math program for children 3-8, which emphasizes higher-order thinking skills and concept acquisition. Children are guided through visual puzzles and games designed to help them see the big ideas behind math, rather than memorize facts. Virtual toy building bricks take the place of traditional manipulatives, with studs on the surface representing numeric value. The platform adjusts to each child's level and comes with a suite of analytics that track learning outcomes. Off computer hands-on projects further extend learning. The MathBRIX mission is to create new learning technologies that will make a significant social and economic impact over time. For the US to remain a world economic leader, all children must be able to think mathematically and problem-solve. Children behind in kindergarten, often stay behind through the remaining school years. Only 40% of U.S. fourth grade students are deemed proficient on national math assessments. Early intervention is key. The visual strategies are derived from the federally-funded Comprehensive School Mathematics Program. Twenty years of research found CSMP students had greater ability to solve novel math problems. CSMP was effective with the gifted as well as the learning challenged. MathBRIX testing with over 500 students confirms high student engagement, feasibility, promise of learning. A larger test is underway in 34 districts nation-wide. In 2018, pre-school and parent education components will be developed with the Parents as Teachers National Center.

Teaching It Right

Grant in 2019
Provider of educational curriculum development services intended for children with autism spectrum disorders. The company's services offer an integrated mobile application for teaching social skills and a multi-sensory therapy program for improving eye contact, enabling children to become more fully engaged in society, prepare themselves to become self-sustaining adults and increase their employment opportunities.

Chef Koochooloo

Pre Seed Round in 2019
Chef Koochooloo is an educational platform focused on enhancing children's learning through interactive culinary arts. The organization aims to engage educators, students, and families in fun cooking activities that also teach essential subjects such as math, science, and social studies. By combining healthy cooking with educational content, Chef Koochooloo offers a variety of programs, including an application, after-school initiatives, private lessons, and party packages. The platform is designed to support teachers with flexible tools for lesson planning and assessment, ensuring alignment with national educational standards. With a team of skilled professionals, including nutritionists, chefs, and curriculum designers, Chef Koochooloo aspires to expand its reach into other interdisciplinary areas reliant on STEM, such as music and crafts, thereby enriching the educational experience for children.
Sinclair Community College, located in Dayton, Ohio, has been providing educational opportunities since its establishment in 1887. The college offers a range of academic programs through divisions such as Business and Public Services, Liberal Arts, Life and Health Sciences, and Science, Mathematics, and Engineering. Students can pursue an associate's degree while engaging in a vibrant student life that includes participation in drama and music groups, art exhibitions, and various clubs and organizations. Admission to degree programs requires applicants to submit transcripts and standardized test scores, while those interested in individual courses need only to complete an application. Financial aid options, including scholarships and loans, are available to students based on financial need, determined through the FAFSA application process.

ReadAskChat

Grant in 2018
ReadAskChat is a research-based early learning system that fosters school-readiness through interactive family reading and conversation. The system is based on a beautifully illustrated digital library enhanced with supports parents and caregivers in cultivating their children’s thinking, creativity, and observation skills. Embedded conversation starters and projects spur meaningful child-adult verbal exchanges at three developmental levels ranging from 6 months to 5 years. The system includes train-the-trainer modules and guides for teachers and service professionals to help families engage in the tried-and-true method of reading to their children and responding to their ideas. ReadAskChat is the recipient of a prestigious National Science Foundation Small Business Research Innovation (NSF-SBIR) award and was a finalist in the 2016 University of Chicago Booth School of Business John Edwardson '72 Social New Venture Challenge.

SpinRise Technologies

Grant in 2018
SpinRise Technologies develops applications to improve the outcomes of autistic children. SpinRise Technologies was founded by a group of experienced technologists and entrepreneurs who want to assist autistic people in reaching their full potential.

Carroll University

Grant in 2018
Carroll University, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is dedicated to fostering student potential through integrated learning and skill training, while promoting enduring values and community engagement. The institution honors a Christian tradition but remains inclusive, welcoming students from all backgrounds. With a diverse range of undergraduate programs, including fields such as Accounting, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and Theatre Arts, as well as graduate offerings in areas like Physical Therapy and Business Administration, Carroll provides comprehensive academic opportunities. The university encourages student involvement through over 50 clubs, including Greek life and service organizations, allowing for a vibrant campus life. The admissions process evaluates applicants based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and community service, while financial aid is available to those demonstrating need. Additionally, Carroll University manages an endowment fund, with earnings supporting scholarships, research, and various academic programs, all overseen by its board of trustees.
As the largest and one of Connecticut’s oldest community colleges, Manchester Community College has a long tradition of academic excellence. The school offers more than 40 certificate programs and over 50 associate’s degree programs, as well as non-credit courses for professional development and personal enrichment. Moreover, MCC’s academics are as unique as they are plentiful. There are a number of programs of study that you’d be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Homeland Security, Computer Game Design, and Drug & Alcohol Recovery Counseling are just a few of the forward-thinking academic programs available at Manchester Community College. One of MCC’s goals is to make education universally accessible, so the school makes financial aid abundantly available to eligible students. In addition to state and federal grants, Manchester Community College funds a number of academic and need-based scholarships. Students that feel unprepared for postsecondary study can participate in the Summer Training and Academic Retention Service (STARS) program. STARS is a six-week summer intensive designed for incoming freshmen, in which you’ll learn key skills for college and work with peer advisors to prepare yourself for the postsecondary experience. This program is open to anyone who qualifies for financial aid or is a first-generation college student. Best of all, it’s completely free!
In the Farmington, Connecticut area, Tunxis Community College has academic, workforce training, and personal enrichment courses for students with all sorts of different interests that can earn you an associate’s degree or certificate. Among the many majors to choose from are programs such as Allied Health, Graphic Design, Visual Fine Arts, Business Office Technology, Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice, Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Science and Technology Studies, and New Media Communication, as well as many more. Counselors in the financial aid office can point you toward programs that will help you earn loans, grants, scholarships, veteran’s benefits, and more if you qualify. These financial aid options can help you pay for tuition and other expenses. Student life at TCC includes a student lounge, The Cyber Café, and the Barnes-Franklin Gallery, which is filled with student, community, and professional art. Academic advising is available for any student who needs help. The career center can help students find employment. Other student resources includes child care, health care, media center, and student activities.
Brainchild Technologies develops digital applications that improves parent-infant communication by measuring behavioral data from little ones and integrates it into fun and educational games, and applications on computer or smart devices. The company is based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Chef Koochooloo

Grant in 2017
Chef Koochooloo is an educational platform focused on enhancing children's learning through interactive culinary arts. The organization aims to engage educators, students, and families in fun cooking activities that also teach essential subjects such as math, science, and social studies. By combining healthy cooking with educational content, Chef Koochooloo offers a variety of programs, including an application, after-school initiatives, private lessons, and party packages. The platform is designed to support teachers with flexible tools for lesson planning and assessment, ensuring alignment with national educational standards. With a team of skilled professionals, including nutritionists, chefs, and curriculum designers, Chef Koochooloo aspires to expand its reach into other interdisciplinary areas reliant on STEM, such as music and crafts, thereby enriching the educational experience for children.

Teaching It Right

Grant in 2017
Provider of educational curriculum development services intended for children with autism spectrum disorders. The company's services offer an integrated mobile application for teaching social skills and a multi-sensory therapy program for improving eye contact, enabling children to become more fully engaged in society, prepare themselves to become self-sustaining adults and increase their employment opportunities.

ReadAskChat

Grant in 2016
ReadAskChat is a research-based early learning system that fosters school-readiness through interactive family reading and conversation. The system is based on a beautifully illustrated digital library enhanced with supports parents and caregivers in cultivating their children’s thinking, creativity, and observation skills. Embedded conversation starters and projects spur meaningful child-adult verbal exchanges at three developmental levels ranging from 6 months to 5 years. The system includes train-the-trainer modules and guides for teachers and service professionals to help families engage in the tried-and-true method of reading to their children and responding to their ideas. ReadAskChat is the recipient of a prestigious National Science Foundation Small Business Research Innovation (NSF-SBIR) award and was a finalist in the 2016 University of Chicago Booth School of Business John Edwardson '72 Social New Venture Challenge.

Cognitive ToyBox

Grant in 2016
Cognitive ToyBox, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing early childhood education by creating evidence-based games and applications that assess kindergarten readiness in children. Founded by Tammy Kwan and Dr. Brenden Lake in 2014 and based in Brooklyn, New York, the company develops mobile solutions for both Android and iOS platforms. Its technology combines observational methods with game-based learning, allowing educators to collect real-time data on children's cognitive skills and progress. Supported by organizations such as the National Science Foundation and the Robin Hood Foundation, Cognitive ToyBox aims to ensure that all children are well-prepared for the challenges of kindergarten through innovative assessment tools and engaging educational experiences.

KinderLab Robotics

Grant in 2015
KinderLab Robotics, Inc. designs and develops innovative toys and educational tools aimed at young children, focusing on promoting STEM skills through play. The company's flagship product, KIBO, is a programming robot kit that allows children to engage with programming concepts using a variety of a la carte programming blocks, lightbulb and sensor modules, and classroom packages. These tools are designed to foster critical technical, problem-solving, and cognitive skills in a manner appropriate for early childhood development. KinderLab Robotics emerged from research conducted by Marina Umaschi Bers at Tufts University, with the goal of making advanced educational technologies accessible to young learners. Incorporated in 2013 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company primarily sells its products online.

KinderLab Robotics

Grant in 2014
KinderLab Robotics, Inc. designs and develops innovative toys and educational tools aimed at young children, focusing on promoting STEM skills through play. The company's flagship product, KIBO, is a programming robot kit that allows children to engage with programming concepts using a variety of a la carte programming blocks, lightbulb and sensor modules, and classroom packages. These tools are designed to foster critical technical, problem-solving, and cognitive skills in a manner appropriate for early childhood development. KinderLab Robotics emerged from research conducted by Marina Umaschi Bers at Tufts University, with the goal of making advanced educational technologies accessible to young learners. Incorporated in 2013 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company primarily sells its products online.

KinderLab Robotics

Grant in 2013
KinderLab Robotics, Inc. designs and develops innovative toys and educational tools aimed at young children, focusing on promoting STEM skills through play. The company's flagship product, KIBO, is a programming robot kit that allows children to engage with programming concepts using a variety of a la carte programming blocks, lightbulb and sensor modules, and classroom packages. These tools are designed to foster critical technical, problem-solving, and cognitive skills in a manner appropriate for early childhood development. KinderLab Robotics emerged from research conducted by Marina Umaschi Bers at Tufts University, with the goal of making advanced educational technologies accessible to young learners. Incorporated in 2013 and based in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company primarily sells its products online.

The Fred Rogers

Grant in 2013
Founded by Fred Rogers in 1971 (as Family Communications, Inc.) to produce "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" and other materials for children and families. This past year we changed our name to The Fred Rogers Company. We're proud to be building on Fred's legacy in innovative ways through a wide variety of media, and engaging new generations of children and families with his timeless wisdom.
Education Development Center (EDC) is a global nonprofit organization focused on designing, delivering, and evaluating innovative programs aimed at tackling critical challenges in education, health, and economic opportunity. By collaborating with public and private partners, EDC seeks to enhance educational outcomes, promote health and wellness, prepare the workforce, and foster civic engagement. Through its comprehensive approach, EDC addresses urgent societal needs by leveraging the strengths of individuals and systems to create sustainable impact in communities worldwide.
MWCC provides relevant, high quality learning opportunities and services that respond to diverse student and community needs, foster student success, and stimulate civic, workforce, and economic vitality.
Education Development Center (EDC) is a global nonprofit organization focused on designing, delivering, and evaluating innovative programs aimed at tackling critical challenges in education, health, and economic opportunity. By collaborating with public and private partners, EDC seeks to enhance educational outcomes, promote health and wellness, prepare the workforce, and foster civic engagement. Through its comprehensive approach, EDC addresses urgent societal needs by leveraging the strengths of individuals and systems to create sustainable impact in communities worldwide.
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