(a) In general
The Director shall make awards on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis, to institutions of higher education or non-profit organizations (or consortia of such institutions or organizations), to enable such entities to increase the participation of women and underrepresented minorities in STEM studies and careers.
(b) Use of fundsAn eligible entity that receives an award under this subsection shall use such award funds to carry out one or more of the following activities designed to increase the participation of women or minorities historically underrepresented in STEM, or both:
(3)
Research to study the impact of policies and practices that are implemented or are otherwise consistent with the purposes of this section.
(6)
Outreach to elementary school and secondary school students to provide opportunities to increase their exposure to STEM fields.
(c) Dissemination activitiesThe Director shall carry out dissemination activities consistent with the purposes of this section, including—