Clare Boothe Luce Program for Women in STEM

Overview

The Clare Boothe Luce Program for Women in STEM is dedicated to significantly increasing the number of women in math, science and engineering at every level of higher education.

By addressing the structural and cultural barriers that contribute to the gender gap, and advancing women’s leadership in the sciences, a new–more inclusive–landscape can take shape. As of 2024, the Clare Boothe Luce Program awards grants of up to $750,000 to fund higher education institutions’ efforts to address the obstacles that prevent or discourage women on their campuses from pursuing and thriving in STEM fields.

Additionally, the Henry Luce Foundation awards CBL STEM Community Grants that allow CBL institutions to build impactful and supportive STEM ecosystems within their local communities.

Applicants must have conducted or plan to conduct research (climate surveys, sexual harassment surveys, diversity studies, or equivalent research efforts) that demonstrates a clear understanding of the barriers its particular communities of women encounter. The use of national data alone is not sufficient evidence of expertise. CBL funding can be part of the proposed research plans.

Minority-Serving institutions and institutions with high percentages of Pell Grant-eligible students whose institutional mission and/or strategic plan aligns with CBL Program goals are encouraged to apply.

Program Restrictions:

• We do not accept applications related to medical, behavioral, and social science fields.
• Funds may not be used for international study or travel abroad programs.
• CBL grantees may not apply for another grant until three years after the submission of their final narrative and budget report.
• The Clare Boothe Luce Program does not allow for indirect costs.

[If you’re planning to apply, please notify Ashley O’Brion (ASUF) in advance.] 

Application Process: To apply for a CBL grant, interested institutions must first submit an initial application through our online portal. After review, the CBL Selection Committee will invite standout candidates to submit a full proposal. Only potential grantees explicitly invited by the Selection Committee may submit a detailed proposal.

Applicants must have conducted or plan to conduct research (climate surveys, sexual harassment surveys, diversity studies, or equivalent research efforts) that demonstrates a clear understanding of the barriers its particular communities of women encounter. The use of national data alone is not sufficient evidence of expertise. CBL funding can be part of the proposed research plans.

Minority-Serving institutions and institutions with high percentages of Pell Grant-eligible students whose institutional mission and/or strategic plan aligns with CBL Program goals are encouraged to apply.

Deadlines:
Initial applications: March 3, 2025 
Full proposals: September 3, 2025

Upcoming Webinars & Recordings: Sign up for one of our sessions here.