Women in STEM - STEM Convergence

Overview

Through STEM Convergence, we seek to transform the STEM ecosystem into an inclusive and accessible space where girls and women, especially from underserved communities, study, work, and thrive in healthy and supportive environments.

In order to flourish as scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders, women in STEM need an even playing field. The Convergence program, a complement to the Clare Boothe Luce Program for Women in STEM, works to democratize the landscape by fostering knowledge production and knowledge sharing, strengthening local organizations and networks, and by addressing the lingering challenges women and girls in STEM face.

Areas of Support
To achieve our mission and uphold Clare Booth Luce’s legacy, STEM Convergence focuses its grantmaking efforts on three key areas. When applying for funding, please indicate the category most relevant to your proposal. STEM Convergence typically awards $50,000 to $300,000 grants. As the CBL Program focuses on higher-education, preference for grant-making goes to non-higher education institutions. STEM Convergence does not fund one-off conferences, gatherings, or meetings unless those events are part of a larger program or strategy also part of the grant request.

Bolstering STEM Gender Equity Research and Change
STEM Convergence supports efforts that tackle the root causes of the gender gap in STEM. These endeavors include local and national research projects that dissect disparities in math, science and engineering fields, as well as programs aimed at building inclusive environments at all stages of learning,

Shaping Future STEM Scholars, Professionals, and Leaders
STEM Convergence backs initiatives that encourage and empower women and girls, especially those from underserved communities, to pursue STEM studies and careers. The inspiring programs we support are designed to provide mentorship, cultivate STEM literacy and enthusiasm, boost confidence, and nurture tomorrow’s leaders at all stages of education and beyond.

Laying the Groundwork for Knowledge Sharing
STEM Convergence funds innovative projects that facilitate cross-institutional and cross-sector collaborations that increase awareness and advance gender equity in STEM.

An organization that already has an active Luce Foundation grant should contact the appropriate Program Director before applying for a second grant in the same area. An organization with an active grant from one of our programs is welcome to apply for a grant from a different program category.

Deadlines: We present recommended proposals to the Luce Foundation’s board of directors for consideration three times each year—in March, June, and November. The concept note review and proposal development process generally takes a minimum of 3 to 4 months.

A Concept Note is a brief description of the institution’s request, including the grant and/or program they would like to be considered for, a summary of their project, and the desired amount of funding.

Awards: STEM Convergence typically awards $50,000 to $300,000 grants. Grants from the Luce Foundation range from $10,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the program and project scope. Please carefully review all application guidelines before seeking funding.