WEDC offers Fab Labs Grant Program for local schools

MARSHFIELD – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is now accepting applications for its Fabrication Laboratories (Fab Labs) Grant Program, which provides funding to help public schools build or expand fab labs.

The grant program supports hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) education by assisting public school districts with equipment purchases for instructional and educational purposes in fab labs.

Fab labs are high-tech workshops with the latest equipment, including computer-controlled manufacturing components such as 3D printers, laser engravers and computer numerical control routers.

WEDC’s investment in the program puts fab labs within reach for schools that might otherwise not have the financial means to install such facilities.

“Fab labs provide students a powerful opportunity not just to build in-demand skills, but also to explore innovation, creativity and hands-on problem-solving,” said Sam Rikkers, deputy secretary and Chief Operating Officer of WEDC, the state’s lead economic development agency. “These labs serve as a launchpad for the talent that will drive Wisconsin’s economy forward.”

WEDC will provide grants of up to $25,000 to public school districts, or up to $50,000 to consortiums of two or more districts, for the creation and/or expansion of fab labs.

The minimum grant amount is $10,000.

For this year’s funding cycle, applicants are being asked to match 50% of the amount of grant funds requested.

The funds may be used to purchase equipment used for instructional and educational purposes by elementary, middle, junior high, or high school students.

Fab Labs Grants will be awarded on a non-competitive first-come, first-served basis, with applicants evaluated on application completeness, evidence of readiness and long-range planning, curriculum, business and community partnerships, financial need and previous awards.

For more information, visit wedc.org/fablabs.

Deadline to apply is Jan. 15.