Founded by scientist and entrepreneur Sara Sakowitz, Blue Moon Box creates monthly hands-on science activity kits for children ages 6–11. Each box brings experiments, creative projects, a lab notebook and the needed materials to a child’s doorstep, with the goal of making science engaging and helping girls and boys see themselves as future scientists and engineers. Sakowitz’s own research background—including recognition as an Intel Science Talent Search finalist and an international science fair grand-prize winner—shapes the company’s distinctly practical approach to early science learning.
Killer SnailsFounded by women working across science, education, and business, Killer Snails creates immersive science-learning experiences and educational games for students in grades 3–10. Its patented virtual and augmented reality programs put learners in the role of scientists, exploring subjects such as marine biology and water stewardship. The company’s products are used in schools nationwide and have grown through crowdfunding, grants, and community engagement.BROOKLYN, NY
STEAMshapes LearningFrom its Maryland base, STEAMshapes Learning designs and manufactures hands-on educational kits that turn American-made cardstock into tactile math, science, engineering, and art activities. Woman-owned and family-run, the company creates pre-cut, screen-free materials for learners from pre-K through grade 5, with its K–4 math workbooks pairing physical shapes with standards-aligned exercises. Its compact kits are designed by educators and artists to support independent exploration and learners of varied abilities.SPARKS, MD
OWI IncorporatedFor more than four decades, OWI Incorporated has been known for award-winning educational products that make STEM learning hands-on and approachable. Founded in 1980 to bring its technology background into education, the company develops buildable robotics and energy-focused kits for students, families, and educators, with curriculum support created alongside teachers.CAMDEN, NY
FutureMakersA Baltimore-based maker education company since 2011, FutureMakers is known for bringing playful engineering into the learning lives of children and the educators who guide them. Its Sparks give PK–8 learners an individual project to build, keep, and revisit, while helping teachers lead hands-on lessons with confidence across classrooms and community programs.BALTIMORE, MD