The National Math and Science Initiative was formed to address one of the nation’s greatest economic and intellectual threats - the declining number of students who are prepared for and take rigorous college courses in mathematics and science. To flourish in the 21st century, the United States must continue to generate intellectual capital that can drive the research and development activities that fuel the economic engine of our future prosperity.

Our strategy is to find and promote programs that have demonstrated a significant impact on math and science education in the United States. Initial funding from NMSI comes from Exxon Mobil Corporation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation.

Key Elements:

• Set clear, strategic goals that address a significant and well-defined issue
• Do what works, and scale programs with proven results
• Run a competitive and robust process for selecting grantees
• Operate as a strategic holding company-monitor implementation and provide ongoing support
• Ensure long-term sustainability, and require both an increasing financial match and increasing scale over the course of the grant period
• Measure results using clear and objective criteria
• Provide partners with opportunities for participation and recognition

“Only by providing leading-edge human capital and knowledge capitol can America continue to maintain a high standard of living, including providing national security for its citizens.”

-Norman Augustine, Chair
Rising Above the Gathering Storm Committee