The Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) aims to enhance the nation's capabilities in STEM, focusing on developing a diverse workforce through NASA-related collaborations within Ohio. It involves working with Ohio universities, the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI), NASA Centers, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and industry. A key goal is to attract and retain students in STEM disciplines, with particular emphasis on increasing participation by women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities, aligning with the National Space Grant Program goals.
The Informal Education Innovation Proposal (IEIP) grant focuses on enhancing informal education activities that support STEM education in areas supported by NASA. The initiative aims to fund projects for one year, with the total budget request for each project capped at $2,500. The availability of these grants is contingent upon available funding from the consortium. This program is part of OSGC's broader efforts to increase engagement and understanding of NASA’s aeronautics and space projects among the American public, particularly through informal education channels.