Intel Pumps $120 Million into Science Programs

• By David Nagel
• 10/22/08

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Intel this week announced that it's infusing $120 million into science programs over the next 10 years through the Society for Science & the Public (SSP), a non-profit organization that aims to advance public participation in science research and education. It's the largest single investment made to date by the Intel Foundation.

"I can't think of a more critical time to invest in math and science education," said Will Swope, Intel Corporate Affairs Group vice president and general manager, in a prepared statement. "We will work with districts, schools and teachers around the world to help get students excited and engaged in math and science--subjects that provide the foundation for innovation."

The funding will be applied mainly to support four efforts: the Intel Science Talent Search, the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, a new youth outreach program, and an online science community and science fair alumni network. The outreach program will be established to help broaden the reach of the competitions, while the online community will bring together past STS and ISEF participants to serve as mentors for young scientists.

"Intel and the Intel Foundation's stunning investment validates the work SSP engages in every day as we pursue our mission to inform, educate, and inspire individuals through the fields of science and math. A commitment of this magnitude illustrates a tremendous confidence in our organization. Intel shares our promise to make a lasting impression on the world's brightest young minds," said Elizabeth Marincola, president of SSP, in a statement released yesterday. "As our partner for more than a decade, Intel has helped SSP expand our programs and our historical mandate to engage the public on math and science. This renewed investment allows us to continue this progress over the next ten years."