Independence Bowl Foundation Donates $10,000 to Starbase Louisiana

SHREVEPORT, La. (March 20, 2025) – Amid federal funding negotiations, Starbase locations nationwide are facing a lack of funding and are in search of donors to keep the program running. The Independence Bowl Foundation and Extra Yard for Teachers have committed to donating $10,000 to the Starbase Louisiana Barksdale Air Force Base branch.

“Barksdale Air Force Base is a pillar of our community, and the Starbase program is so important in providing opportunity to our local youth. We are proud to donate to this program and assist them and the tremendous teachers who show these kids the world of STEM,” said Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Executive Director Missy Setters. “The Independence Bowl is proud to have such strong ties to Barksdale and the United States military, and we thank Starbase for all they do for the youth in our community and across the country.”

The Starbase program was created to allow students to gain experience in the world of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). There are 90 Starbase locations, including five in Louisiana and the largest one in the state at Barksdale Air Force Base. The program’s Barksdale location benefits thousands of students each year.

Federal funds for Starbase ran out in February amid ongoing federal budget negotiations. Without funding, Starbase Louisiana is searching for help paying the program’s teachers and operating costs. The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl, in partnership with Extra Yard for Teachers, donates to local teachers every year, and this donation is just another avenue to assist local educators.

Since 2021, the Independence Bowl Foundation and Extra Yard for Teachers have partnered to donate $102,000 to local educators – reaching schools in Bossier, Caddo, DeSoto, Red River and Webster Parishes. This donation will bring that total to $112,000.

ABOUT THE RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL™

Established in 1976, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl™ is college football’s 11th most historic bowl game. No. 22/19 (CFP/AP) Army West Point defeated Louisiana Tech, 27-6, in the 48th edition on Saturday, December 28, 2024. Radiance Technologies is the bowl’s title sponsor through the 2025-26 Bowl Season. The bowl’s conference, team and television agreements also run through the 2025-26 season. 

The Independence Bowl Foundation is prevalent in the Shreveport-Bossier City area throughout the year, hosting events to help enhance the economic impact and growth of our community. The Mission of the Independence Bowl is to attract and provide quality, nationally recognized football competition oriented to the Ark-La-Tex region. For more information, visit RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com or follow the bowl on Facebook, X and Instagram at @IndyBowl.