Through the From Seedlings to Scale (S2S) Grants program, IES will invest in innovative ideas within an identified focus area through three phases of increasing funding and duration to support ideas as they grow from seedlings to scalable solutions. Projects will incorporate high-quality research, robust solution development, and attention to sustainability and scaling throughout all phases. 

For the FY 2027 S2S program, IES invites applications for Phase One projects under the Coordinating Systems to Translate Evidence into Policy and Practice (C-STEP) focus area. C-STEP seeks to develop and rigorously test innovative AI- and technology-enabled solutions that help education systems intentionally integrate evidence-based products, processes, and policies to improve outcomes for prekindergarten through grade 12 students. Proposed solutions should reflect a deep understanding of the systems in which they operate and enable education leaders to align resources, anticipate impacts, and overcome implementation barriers, thereby strengthening the connection between research, policy, and practice.

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): 84.305J