The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) North Carolina Chapter is officially accepting applications for their 2026 Scholarship Program. AFCEA is dedicated to supporting students and teachers who are passionate about driving innovation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

AFCEA-NC brings together U.S. Government (USG) national security professionals and private sector leaders across the state, working together to drive collaboration and innovation. Their mission is two fold, combining the immediate needs of the national security community with a long-term commitment to growing the next generation of STEM leaders.

The deadline was recently extended to April 20. Read below to find out how you can apply!

Educators: 

The purpose of AFCEA-NC’s STEM Grant Program is to enable teachers to purchase lab supplies, hardware, software, projectors, other equipment, etc. The goal is to enable teachers to implement a new project or capability to more effectively encourage the development of students in the science and technology disciplines.

How to apply: 

1. Complete the application.  Grant applications can be found at https://nc.afceachapters.org/

 Applications are limited to one per teacher.

2. Email the completed application to admin@nc.afceachapters.org with the subject line

“AFCEA grant application _your name “

3. Applications must be received by April 20th.

4. Please attach descriptions, prices, and any additional information you feel is pertinent.

Grant amounts vary but have been up to $1000 previously.

5. AFCEA North Carolina reserves the right to select the winners of the 2026 STEM grant program. Selection will be competitive, based upon merit, impact and applicability to the STEM fields. The number of grants awarded will be determined by the chapter’s availability of funds.

6. Teachers and principals will be notified of their grant status prior to May 22, 2026. 

7. After receiving their grant, teachers are also requested to provide photos of their project being used in the classroom. This will assist the chapter in promoting this program among its sponsors and fundraising community. Photos can be emailed to the address

mentioned above.

Students: 

If you are a high-achieving student in North Carolina looking to fuel your educational journey, they want to hear from you!

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Standing: Must be a high school junior, senior, or a current college student.

Location: Must be attending a school within North Carolina.

Field of Study: Must be enrolled in or pursuing a STEM program.

GPA: Minimum of 2.7 or higher (current transcript or latest report card required).

Essay Prompt

AFCEA- NC wants to know your story. Please provide a 300-500 word essay addressing the following:

How would this grant funding make a meaningful difference in your educational path? Outline your long-term goals and explain how your chosen field of study supports your plans for the future.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step? 

Prepare your documents: Ensure you have your essay and your most recent transcript/report card ready.

Email your submission: Send all materials to admin@nc.afceachapters.org.

Subject Line: Your email subject must read: Last Name_2026 Scholarship Application.

All submissions must be received by April 20th.

Visit their website at nc.afceachapters.org for more information about their mission and community impact.v