Your Trusted Nonprofit Organization Supporting Schools and Students
Missouri STEM Initiative is a nonprofit organization committed to expanding access to high-quality education programs for kids while supporting schools, educators, and workforce readiness statewide.
About Missouri STEM Initiative
Supporting Educators, Inspiring Kids, Building the Workforce
Co-Founded in Fall 2022 by Stan Hullet and Dave Patton, Missouri STEM Initiative is a Missouri-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to strengthening STEM education across the state. As manufacturers seeking future employees, we started this organization to connect students with hands-on STEM learning that identifies skills relevant to real-world careers.
Our mission is to better prepare students for meaningful opportunities in their future. We support schools, educators, and communities by expanding access to engaging, practical learning experiences that build confidence, problem-solving skills, and workforce readiness.
What sets us apart is our flexible grant model—Missouri STEM Initiative does not operate on a fixed season for grants. We award funding for STEM programs as funds are raised, allowing us to respond quickly to school and community needs.
We work with an active board of members from industry, education, and government, bringing together diverse expertise to guide programs and ensure lasting impact. Through collaboration, funding, and community involvement, we help schools deliver education programs that inspire kids and build the workforce of tomorrow.
Why STEM Education Matters
Science, technology, engineering, and math play a critical role in shaping today’s workforce and tomorrow’s opportunities. Early exposure to STEM helps students build problem-solving skills, confidence, and practical knowledge that extends far beyond the classroom.
As a nonprofit organization, Missouri STEM Initiative focuses on advancing education programs for kids that connect learning to real-world applications. These programs help students understand how STEM skills translate into careers while supporting educators with relevant classroom resources.
Who We Serve
We work with K–12 schools throughout Missouri, supporting both rural and urban communities. Our goal is to ensure students across the state have access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities.
By funding and strengthening each education program for kids, our nonprofit organization helps schools enhance classroom instruction, introduce hands-on projects, and support educator professional development. This ensures consistent, lasting impact for students and teachers alike.
Our Commitment
Accountability, sustainability, and community impact guide everything we do. As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to responsibly utilizing funds to support educational programs that create long-term value for students, schools, and local communities.
By investing in STEM education today, we help build a stronger, more prepared workforce for Missouri’s future.
Dave Patton
President, Missouri STEM Initiative
Dave Patton has 37 years of experience in manufacturing and sales to educational institutions and is passionate about connecting students with real-world career opportunities. As the Co-founder of his first 501(c)(3) nonprofit, he focused on bridging the gap between education and employment, a mission he continues as President of Missouri STEM Initiative.
Driven by a love for education in all its forms, Dave works to create programs that equip students with practical skills and confidence for the future. His unique perspective, shaped by decades in industry and education, helps ensure that MSI’s initiatives are both meaningful and impactful for kids, schools, and the workforce.
Our Approach
Missouri STEM Initiative brings together educators, business leaders, and community partners to align education with regional workforce needs. This collaborative model enables us to support education programs for kids that are practical, relevant, and informed by industry insights.
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we focus on:
Providing grant funding for classroom STEM initiatives
Supporting educator training and professional development
Encouraging partnerships between schools and local employers
Strengthening education-to-career pathways across Missouri
Each education program for kids we support is designed to promote engagement, curiosity, and skill development, preparing students for future success.