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AAUW Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants: Empowering Our Branches and States to Lead in STEM

AAUW branches and states are uniquely positioned to catalyze change in local communities. Their connections, knowledge, and passion make them powerful advocates for girls in STEM. That’s why AAUW National is offering dedicated funding of up to $10,000 to support branches and states in implementing innovative STEM programming for girls in grades K–12.

This initiative reflects AAUW’s commitment to advancing gender equity in STEM by increasing access, retention, and advancement opportunities for girls. Girls bring unique skills and perspectives to the table, and by investing in their development in the STEM field, AAUW contributes to building a stronger, more innovative, and more resilient STEM landscape for the future. Through this initiative, branches and states can foster the next generation of STEM leaders in their own communities.

Program Overview

This grant program is designed to help AAUW branches and states:

  • Bring STEM to life in their communities: Create or support engaging, hands-on learning experiences that spark girls’ interest and build their confidence in STEM.
  • Expand local impact: Reach more girls or deepen engagement with those already being served.
  • Showcase commitment: Demonstrate AAUW’s mission in action through visible, impactful initiatives that resonate within their communities.
  • Tap into a community of organizations and leaders: Collaborate with others dedicated to advancing gender equity in STEM, fostering partnerships that amplify reach and results.

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from AAUW branches and state organizations that: 

  • Are designing or implementing hands-on STEM programming specifically for girls in grades K–12 
  • Focus on at least one of the following core areas: 
    • Skill-building in science, technology, engineering, or math
    • Confidence-building and STEM identity development 
    • College and career preparation with a STEM focus
    • Connecting girls with women mentors and role models in STEM fields 
  • Have completed the annual branch survey (Branches only) 

Applications will be reviewed through four main lenses: 

  1. Program Design and AAUW Alignment
    Reviewers will look for a clear description of the STEM program and how it advances gender equity in STEM. 
  2. Community Impact Potential
    AAUW values programs that:
    a. Set clear, achievable goals for participant outcomes
    b. Address specific barriers to girls’ STEM participation at the individual, community, or structural level
    c. Incorporate proven practices for engaging girls in STEM 
  3. Implementation Capacity
    Branches and states should demonstrate their ability to successfully carry out the proposed program through:
    a. Experience with similar initiatives or clear plans for developing necessary skills
    b. Committed volunteer leadership with relevant expertise or enthusiasm to learn
    c. A sustainable approach that can continue beyond the grant period 
  4. Community Engagement and Learning
    Strong applications will show connection to the broader community through:
    a. Program design informed by input from girls and their families
    b. Partnerships with local schools or community organizations
    c. Plans for gathering feedback and improving the program over time 

 

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through AAUW’s online portal at aauw.fluxx.io and include:

  • Narrative application, covering:
    • Program description and alignment with AAUW’s mission
    • Intended participants and outreach strategies
    • Timeline of activities
    • Success metrics and evaluation methods
    • Branch and/or state capacity and qualifications
    • Community engagement approach
    • Commitment to learning and use of feedback in program design
  • Financial documents, including:
    • Prior fiscal year branch budget
    • Current fiscal year branch budget
    • Detailed project budget with explanations of how each expense supports the program goals

Review Process

Applications will be evaluated by a diverse panel of AAUW staff members/experts. 

Applications will be accepted and reviewed in three rounds (see timeline below). Applicants who do not receive funding in one round can apply for future rounds. 

Stage
Round 1 Dates
Round 2 Dates
Round 3 Dates
Application Closing Dates Period
September 30, 2025
November 30, 2025
March 30, 2026
Review Period
October 2025
December 2025
April 2026
Award Notification
November 30, 2025
January 30, 2026
May 29, 2026
Funds Disbursement
December 2025
January/February 2026
June 2026