Skip To Content

Women in STEMSTEM Convergence

Over Three Decades of Advancing Women in STEM

Read more

Program AimsThrough STEM Convergence, we seek to transform the STEM ecosystem into an inclusive and accessible space where girls and women, especially from underserved communities, study, work, and thrive in healthy and supportive environments.

In order to flourish as scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders, women in STEM need an even playing field. The Convergence program, a complement to the Clare Boothe Luce Program for Women in STEM, works to democratize the landscape by fostering knowledge production and knowledge sharing, strengthening local organizations and networks, and by addressing the lingering challenges women and girls in STEM face.

Grantee Locations

Map of the World Purple map of the world continents

Program HistoryFor nearly a decade, the Henry Luce Foundation utilized a portion of its Higher Education Program funds to support systemic, structural, and cultural change efforts in STEM to complement the work of the Clare Boothe Luce Program.

This pool of funding supported initiatives such as STEM leadership programs and the National Academies sexual harassment study. In 2021, the Foundation codified these resources, now known as STEM Convergence, to increase its commitment to institutional and structural change in STEM.

More Luce Foundation History

Areas of Support

To achieve our mission and uphold Clare Booth Luce’s legacy, STEM Convergence focuses its grantmaking efforts on three key areas described in the tabs below. When applying for funding, please indicate the category most relevant to your proposal. STEM Convergence typically awards $50,000 to $300,000 grants. As the CBL Program focuses on higher-education, preference for grant-making goes to non-higher education institutions. STEM Convergence does not fund one-off conferences, gatherings, or meetings unless those events are part of a larger program or strategy also part of the grant request.

  • STEM Convergence supports efforts that tackle the root causes of the gender gap in STEM. These endeavors include local and national research projects that dissect disparities in math, science and engineering fields, as well as programs aimed at building inclusive environments at all stages of learning,

  • STEM Convergence backs initiatives that encourage and empower women and girls, especially those from underserved communities, to pursue STEM studies and careers. The inspiring programs we support are designed to provide mentorship, cultivate STEM literacy and enthusiasm, boost confidence, and nurture tomorrow’s leaders at all stages of education and beyond.

  • STEM Convergence funds innovative projects that facilitate cross-institutional and cross-sector collaborations that increase awareness and advance gender equity in STEM.

Additional Resources

Looking for more insights and inspiration? Explore our curated selection of informative articles, videos, and related programs beyond Luce.

Apply for a GrantWe are committed to identifying the most promising ideas and projects for support. All Luce programs accept unsolicited inquiries through our online portal.

How to Apply