Science Discovery on Main Street

Main Street America, through a generous grant from Simons Foundation International administered by the Simons Foundation’s Science, Society & Culture division, is thrilled to announce our new Science Discovery on Main Street grant program.

The Science Discovery on Main Street grant program aims to help Main Street communities uncover and leverage their unique science assets, history, and features towards building local pride and creating engaging local attractions and activities.

Through the Science Discovery on Main Street grant program, communities will receive professional support to explore science engagement activities as Promotions. By connecting the Main Street Approach and science engagement, this program will help your community take steps towards inspiring curiosity, joy, and pride in what makes your community unique and towards attracting visitors through science-inspired events and activities. 

Eligibility

Applicant must:

• Be a designated Main Street America Community member (Designated Accredited or Affiliates) in good standing 
• Be located in a rural area, population of 50,000 or less 
• Be committed to creating science engagement opportunities for residents through their Main Street organization and/or by leveraging partnerships
• Have an annual organizational operating budget of less than $1 million

Evaluation Criteria

Community Need 

• Demonstrate strong need for funding, based on organization budget and community demographics

Commitment to Exploring Science & Science Engagement for your Main Street 

• Commitment to prioritizing focus on residents and science education in addition to attracting tourists

Sustainability & Feasibility 

• Commitment to science activities beyond the initial grant
• Organization is ready and has a committed person or person(s) ready to participate 
• Staff / coordinator commitment / organizational commitment 

Partners, Engagement, Resources 

• Open to working with partners (existing or, if needed, additional provided partners) 
• Open to working with science institutions, scientists, and/or science engagement experts 

For more, visit www.mainstreet.org/ScienceDiscovery and see the program's Terms & Conditions.