Career Development Grants

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) administers the Career Development Grants program to support women aiming to advance or shift their careers into fields where they are underrepresented, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With a strong commitment to gender equity, AAUW awards up to $8,000 to qualified individuals for short-term, accredited certificate or training programs that produce employment or advancement outcomes within 6 to 12 months. These grants are not available for degree programs such as Master's degrees; such applicants are directed instead to AAUW’s Selected Professions or American Fellowships. Career Development Grants are tailored for women entering new career fields, transitioning into emerging sectors, or seeking upward mobility through leadership development. Eligible programs include executive leadership or management training, particularly for women currently employed in male-dominated industries such as business, law, or STEM. AAUW aims to narrow gender gaps in professional and leadership representation by facilitating pathways to gainful employment and decision-making roles. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and hold at least an Associate’s degree. They must be enrolled in, admitted to, or have applied to a certificate or training program from an accredited or licensed institution in a field where women represent less than 50% of the workforce or senior positions. Fields of focus include but are not limited to engineering, architecture, mathematics, natural and physical sciences, technology, finance, and emerging applied trades. Applicants pursuing executive training must already be employed in such fields. Grants are disbursed in full at the beginning of the term or program and may be used for tuition, fees, course materials, transportation, dependent care, and living expenses. Prohibited uses include research equipment, personal debts, institutional overhead, or publication costs. All awards are contingent upon enrollment in one of the originally listed programs. Deviating from the approved program post-award leads to disqualification. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with three annual rounds: August to October, January to February, and April to May. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited. Awards are announced one month after each review round, and funds are distributed in the subsequent month. Selection criteria include alignment with AAUW’s mission, clarity of career trajectory, commitment to service for women and girls, program feasibility, and demonstrated resilience in overcoming barriers. Priority may be given to applicants seeking industry-recognized certifications or working in STEM fields. Additional preference is shown to parenting students, first-generation college graduates, and those from single-parent households. To apply, individuals must use AAUW’s application portal and provide narrative responses, proof of degree, transcripts, program accreditation documentation, and field representation statistics with citations. Applicants are responsible for ensuring submission completeness. The grants are taxable depending on use, and recipients are urged to consult a tax advisor. Inquiries may be directed to awards@aauw.org or 202.785.7700.

Prioritize alignment with underrepresented fields; cite credible data on gender representation; demonstrate clear career intent and service to women.