STEM Education for Girls Impact in Connecticut's Communities
GrantID: 12704
Grant Funding Amount Low: $50,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $50,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Promoting STEM Opportunities for Girls in Connecticut
Connecticut is home to a robust technology and innovation sector, yet persistent gender disparities exist in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Current statistics show that only 28% of the workforce in STEM occupations are women, with significantly lower representation among women of color. The Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund indicates that only 11% of women in Connecticut hold degrees in STEM-related fields, highlighting the need for targeted programs that inspire young girls to pursue careers in technology and engineering.
Local non-profit organizations and educational institutions are pivotal in addressing these disparities, often focusing their efforts on underrepresented communities. They face challenges in securing adequate funding to develop engaging and effective after-school programs that provide girls with hands-on learning experiences in STEM. These organizations often grapple with limited resources and support, which impede their ability to foster interest and skills in science and technology among young girls.
This grant opportunity aims to fund after-school STEM programs specifically for girls from underrepresented communities in Connecticut. Eligible applicants will include non-profits, schools, and community organizations that can demonstrate an established track record in delivering impactful educational experiences. The initiative is designed to empower organizations that ensure inclusive access to STEM-related learning, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to female role models working in tech fields.
Through this funding, organizations will be able to provide programming that cultivates interest and skills in STEM, ultimately contributing to closing the gender gap in these fields. The focus will be on measurable outcomes, including increased participation rates in STEM courses, improved academic performance, and enhanced access to mentorship and career development opportunities. By prioritizing girls within historically underrepresented demographics, the initiative aims to create pathways that lead to successful careers in technology.
Connecticut’s emphasis on addressing gender disparities in the workforce aligns with broader state goals for economic development and inclusivity. Organizations applying for the grant must demonstrate how they will effectively assess the fit of their programs within the state’s demographic context, ensuring that they meet the unique needs of Connecticut’s young women. As the state seeks to diversify its tech workforce, this funding represents a critical investment in the future of STEM education for girls.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements