Maryland Space Grant Consortium

**National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program** Established by Congress in 1988 and implemented by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in 1989, the [National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program](https://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/programs/national/spacegrant/home/index.html) — also known as Space Grant — contributes to the nation’s science enterprise by funding research, education, and public service projects through a national network of 52 university-based Space Grant consortia. These consortia administer programs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The consortia’s over 850 affiliates include academic institutions, research laboratories, and businesses. Other partners include state and local government agencies, other federal agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The program goals are to: - Promote a strong science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education base from elementary through secondary levels while preparing teachers in these grade levels to become more effective at improving student academic outcomes. - Establish and maintain a national network of universities with interests and capabilities in aeronautics, space and related fields. - Encourage cooperative programs among universities, aerospace industry, and government. - Encourage interdisciplinary training, research and public service programs related to aerospace. - Recruit and train U.S. citizens for careers in aerospace science and technology. NASA is charged with managing this program and funds Space Grant Consortia in all fifty states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.