OKLAHOMA — The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) is now accepting applications for its AERO Education Grant Program for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering funding opportunities to support aviationand aerospace-focused education initiatives across the state.
Applications are due by May 31, 2026, and are open to programs serving students from primary education through postsecondary institutions. The grants are part of more than $500,000 the agency distributes annually to support educational efforts designed to introduce Oklahoma students to careers in STEM fields—science, technology, engineering and mathematics— with a particular emphasis on aviation and aerospace industries.
ODAA officials say encouraging young people to pursue careers in aerospace and aviation remains a central mission of the agency. Funding provided through the program also supports the statewide Oklahoma Works initiative, which aims to bridge the skills gap and connect students with career pathways that strengthen Oklahoma’s workforce.
Since fiscal year 2001, ODAA has awarded approximately $5.8 million in aerospace and aviation education funding to organizations throughout Oklahoma. In the past five years alone, more than $2.3 million has been distributed through grants and contracts supporting educational programming.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to review program qualifications outlined in Title 25, Chapter 25 of the rules filed with the Oklahoma Secretary of State before submitting an application. Officials also urge community leaders, schools, career technology centers, colleges, and municipalities to share information about the grant opportunity.
For additional information or assistance with applications and program implementation, interested parties may contact ODAA at education@aerospace. ok.gov.