[American Association of University Women](https://www.aauw.org)

October 2026: Letter of Interest deadline | February 2027: Full application deadline (invited only)

Up to $75,000 per grant; both smaller and full awards considered; one-year project period.

Supports nonprofits and schools in creating hands-on STEM programs that empower K-12 girls, especially from underrepresented groups, to pursue STEM education and careers.

--- ## Description This opportunity funds innovative, community-based programs that dismantle barriers to girls’ participation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and build a diverse talent pipeline. Grants support U.S.-based nonprofits and educational institutions engaged in hands-on learning, mentorship, family involvement, and confidence-building experiences for K-12 girls, with a particular emphasis on reaching those from historically underrepresented communities. Grantees join a collaborative network focused on gender equity in STEM, gaining access to learning opportunities, increased visibility, and resources for systemic change. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026: Letter of Interest (LOI) deadline (anticipated/projected) - February 2027: Full application deadline for invited applicants (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum grant: **$75,000** (smaller requests are encouraged for emerging organizations or pilot projects) - Project duration: **One year** - Indirect costs are allowed with no specified cap - Funds cannot be used for scholarships, construction, fundraising, grants to other organizations, political/lobbying activities, or retroactive expenses --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible applicants:** - U.S.-incorporated nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS status, or fiscally sponsored by such organizations - K-12 educational institutions (public/private schools, districts, etc.) - **Geographic focus:** - Projects must be implemented in the United States - **Program requirements:** - Must serve girls in grades K-12 with a focus on STEM skill-building, confidence, identity, mentorship, and/or college/career preparation - Must demonstrate capacity for program delivery, community engagement, and financial management - **Exclusions:** - Individuals (not eligible) - AAUW branches and affiliates (apply to the Branch Grant instead) - Organizations with AAUW board members, employees, review panelists, or their immediate family in decision-making/financial management roles --- ## Application Process - **Step 1:** Submit a Letter of Interest (LOI) via the [AAUW Application Portal](https://aauw.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new) - Include project summary, theory of change, community need, program approach, organizational capacity, and budget summary - **Step 2:** If invited, submit a full application with: - Detailed narrative, IRS determination letter (if nonprofit), Form 990, prior and current fiscal year budgets, financial statements, and a detailed project budget with justification - **Review:** - LOIs and applications are evaluated for mission alignment, community engagement, impact potential, organizational readiness, and learning mindset - Proposals are reviewed by a diverse panel including women in STEM, nonprofit leaders, and AAUW alumnae - **Reporting:** - Grantees participate in cohort learning, submit mid-term and final reports, and engage in check-ins to share progress and lessons learned --- ## Additional Information - Both new and ongoing programs are eligible, provided they align with the grant’s mission and demonstrate impact or strong rationale for support - Co-ed programs are eligible if AAUW funds exclusively support girls’ participation - Indirect costs are permitted; there is no set limit - Organizations may reapply in subsequent cycles --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Application Instructions](https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/community-action-grant/) - [AAUW Fellowships & Grants Application Portal](https://aauw.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new) - [Account Creation Instructions (PDF)](https://www.aauw.org/app/uploads/2025/07/Instructions-to-Create-Account-in-AAUW-Applicant-Portal.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|------------------------------------------------| | General inquiries | [awards@aauw.org](mailto:awards@aauw.org) | | Phone | 202.785.7700 | | AAUW Contact Page | [Contact Us](https://www.aauw.org/contact-us/) |

Community Action Grant

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