Student Science Enrichment Program

The Student Science Enrichment Program (SSEP) awards support creative, hands-on science education activities for K-12 students.  Nonprofit organizations serving North Carolina primary and secondary school students are eligible to apply. Activities typically occur outside of the school day.  These awards provide up to $60,000 per year for three years with up to 11 awards to be made for the 2011 series. 

Since the program’s inception in 1996, Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF) has awarded nearly $20 million to support 141 awards at 69 organizations across North Carolina. Programs range from afterschool programs, year round science experiences, Saturday academies or summer camps.  The program has reached 33,000 students. In 2006, 56 percent of student participants reported that they view science as a career option after completing a science enrichment program. Many participants stated that they would refer a program to their friends.

SSEP awards support career-oriented and practical programs intended to provide creative science enrichment activities for students in K-12 education who have shown exceptional skills and interest in science and mathematics, as well as those perceived to have high potential. These programs must enable students to participate in hands-on scientific activities and pursue inquiry-based avenues of exploration—an educational approach that BWF believes to be an effective way to increase students’ understanding and appreciation of the scientific process. To increase academic achievement, programs must provide a well-defined structure that aligns with the school-day curriculum, well-trained staff, and student follow up.