Community Action Grant

The AAUW Community Action Grants program is administered by the American Association of University Women, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing gender equity for women and girls through education, advocacy, and research. This grant initiative specifically focuses on addressing systemic barriers that limit girls’ participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By funding community-based projects, AAUW aims to build a more equitable STEM pipeline and expand opportunities for girls to develop confidence, skills, and long-term interest in STEM education and careers. The program is grounded in a theory of change that emphasizes the importance of supportive environments, access to relatable role models, and engaging learning experiences in fostering sustained interest and identity in STEM fields. The purpose of the Community Action Grants program is to support innovative projects that serve girls in grades K through 12. These projects must be designed exclusively for participants who identify as girls and should aim to increase STEM engagement, knowledge, and confidence. AAUW encourages applicants to incorporate one or more priority approaches, including hands-on STEM learning experiences, mentorship or exposure to women in STEM, family or caregiver engagement, and activities that build confidence, identity, or a sense of belonging in STEM. While not all elements are required, proposals that integrate multiple approaches in a cohesive manner are considered more competitive. Special emphasis is placed on projects that serve girls from historically underrepresented communities in STEM. Funding is available in amounts up to 50000 dollars, with flexible grant periods allowing projects to span up to 24 months. Projects must begin between July 1, 2027 and September 30, 2027, and conclude no later than two years after the start date. Grant funds are intended to support programmatic activities aligned with the stated objectives, but may not be used for certain expenses, including scholarships for higher education, infrastructure or construction, prior debts, fundraising activities, political campaigns, or grants to other organizations. In addition to financial support, grantees benefit from participation in a broader AAUW network that offers collaboration, visibility, and capacity-building opportunities. Eligibility for this grant is limited to United States-based nonprofit organizations with 501c3 tax-exempt status, tax-exempt educational institutions such as K through 12 schools, colleges, and universities, and organizations that are fiscally sponsored by a qualifying nonprofit. All proposed projects must also be located within the United States or its territories. Religious organizations may apply, provided that funded projects are secular in nature. Certain entities are disqualified from applying, including those with direct affiliations to AAUW leadership, staff, or review panelists, as well as projects that include mixed-gender participation. The application process follows a two-step structure beginning with the submission of a Letter of Interest. The LOI is completed through an online application portal and consists of short-answer questions along with required documentation such as proof of nonprofit status. Only one LOI may be submitted per organization per cycle, and fiscally sponsored projects must be submitted by the fiscal sponsor. Selected applicants are invited to complete a full application, which includes narrative responses, a project timeline, a detailed budget, and financial documentation such as a statement of activities and balance sheet. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with AAUW’s mission, program fit, understanding of community needs, potential for impact, organizational readiness, and budget alignment. The timeline for the current funding cycle begins with the opening of the LOI form on August 17, 2026, followed by a submission deadline of September 17, 2026. Applicants are notified of LOI decisions by November 13, 2026, and invited organizations must submit full applications by January 14, 2027. Panel reviews take place from January through March 2027, with award notifications issued on April 15, 2027. Reporting requirements include mid-term and final narrative and financial reports, with expectations for tracking both standard and customized indicators related to project reach, implementation, and participant outcomes. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle, providing ongoing opportunities for eligible organizations to apply.

Align proposal with STEM equity mission integrate multiple program elements and clearly demonstrate community need and impact potential