PATHS
STEAM Educational Grant
.png)
PATHS is a program to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ youth and young adults interested in careers in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) fields through storytelling by current LGBTQ+ STEAM professionals, and provides connection to the resources needed to pursue STEAM careers.
Creating visibility is crucial, but so is addressing the very real financial barriers that LGBTQ+ individuals face when deciding their career paths. We recognize that while STEAM jobs offer increased financial stability, they also require resources to pursue successfully. We are dedicated to empowering more LGBTQ+ individuals to enter STEAM by removing financial barriers through the PATHS STEAM Educational Grant program.
The purpose of this grant is to support LGBTQ+ individuals beginning their “paths'' into a STEAM program by helping to remove financial access barriers. We understand that everyone’s journey looks different and therefore this grant is open to applicants entering STEAM through a variety of ways. To qualify for the grant you must identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and be pursuing entry into STEAM via education, career-development, training, or research in STEAM. Applicants may apply for up to $5,000 in grant support.
Questions about this opportunity will be answered by email only. Please contact Kristen Kelley, Programs and Communications Manager with any questions.
Thank you to everyone who applied and Congratulations to our recipients!
PATHS STEAM Educational Grant FAQs
WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS?
To be eligible for this grant, individuals must:
1. identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community
2. be able to show acceptance or participation in a STEAM educational program
3. have an address within the United States or a U.S. territory
4. selected grant recipients must commit to participating in the PATHS Mentorship Program for a minimum of 12 months from receiving their grant funds
HOW MUCH GRANT SUPPORT CAN I APPLY FOR?
Applicants can apply for up to $5,000 in grant support. Applicants must specify intended use of grant money and will be asked to show information regarding program and supply costs. Decisions will be made based on understanding of financial requirements of intended use of grant. Grant awardees may receive a range of support up to the full amount of requested grant support.
WHAT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS QUALIFY?
We understand that not everyone has a traditional "path" into STEAM careers, therefore it is important for us to acknowledge the variety of educational opportunities in STEAM. You are eligible if you are studying at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, as well as continuing education courses at colleges, universities, and individual programs, or through a company or entity that offers STEAM skills training and certification courses. If you have questions about whether your program qualifies please contact Kristen Kelley.
WHAT IS THE PATHS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM AND PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS?
The PATHS Mentorship Program connects PATHS grant recipients to a network of mentors in order to ensure they have the guidance, resources, and knowledge necessary to be successful in their STEAM pursuits. PATHS STEAM Educational Grant recipients are required to participate regularly in monthly mentorship workshops. Grant recipients will be required to participate for 12 months as of receiving their grant funds, and will have the option to continue participation after completion.
WHAT REPORTING IS REQUIRED FOR THIS GRANT?
In order to ensure that we are continuously improving the PATHS program to support and empower the LGBTQ+ STEAM community, feedback from program participants is important for us. We will require that grant recipients complete a short survey at the 6 and 12 month marks after receiving their grant.
WHAT IS THE SELECTION PROCESS?
Upon receipt of applications, LGBT Tech staff will conduct a thorough study of each application. If it is determined that additional information is required, applicants will be contacted. Incomplete applications will not be considered; providing false information on an application is cause for denial.