WHO WE ARE
About BEST
BEST is a recognized thought leader in championing access and engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With over two decades of experience, BEST leverages strong partnerships across government, industry, and academia to create systemic change. Our data-driven approach ensures we develop tailored programs that address the unique needs of our partners and the communities they serve.
BEST is devoted to cultivating STEM talent in communities across the nation. We empower individuals through mentorship, support for K-12 educators, and experiential learning opportunities for students. Moreover, we help organizations develop resources and training programs for all talents.
The impact of BEST's work is multifaceted. We bolster our nation's scientific and technological competitiveness by ensuring the U.S. fully utilizes its talent pool. BEST champions the creation of pathways to opportunity, leading to increased economic mobility for individuals from various sectors of society.
We support STEM initiatives by managing programs, encouraging engagement, and working with communities to inspire all demographics.
BEST assisted Department of Defense (DoD) funded Manufacturing Innovation Institutes in partnering with minority-serving institutions to enhance collaboration and create strategies for engagement. Most importantly, our efforts have contributed to building a society where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed in STEM fields.
A coalition of seven federal agencies provided seed funding in 2001 to launch BEST, a non-profit organization, to broaden the participation of women and historically under-represented minorities in STEM.
Following the submission of three reports to Congress on the nation’s most effective STEM diversity programs, the Office of the Secretary of Defense selected BEST in 2005 as its principal contractor support for developing a K-12 portfolio of STEM outreach activities.
BEST was awarded more than $35 million in grants from 2006 through 2018 to support the National Defense Education Program (NDEP) in the areas of strategic planning, management of external partnerships, community engagement, DoD laboratory outreach, communications, and evaluation.
In 2019, BEST became a member of the management team of the Defense STEM Education Consortium (DSEC) under the leadership of the Research Triangle Institute. In this capacity, BEST monitors, coordinates, and supports the work of diverse strategic outreach partners that account for 80% of DSEC’s five-year $75 million budget.