Best STEM Education Grants in California

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Summer Research Education Program supports the recruitment of early-stage investigators and aims to provide hands-on research experiences in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias. Targeting high school students, undergraduates, and science teachers, the program enhances STEM education through authentic research opportunities and educational activities. By fostering early exposure to research, it aims to stimulate interest in AD/ADRD careers and address workforce shortages in this critical field.

The Staff Research Program, initiated by the ARO, aims to enhance the professional skills of its scientific staff through collaborative basic research with external institutions. This program encourages hands-on scientific investigations in various fields, including engineering and life sciences, while ensuring the integrity of the ARO's mission. ARO scientists will not act as principal investigators on proposals but will contribute to research outcomes and educational activities, fostering knowledge advancement and collaboration.

The Gough Family Scholarship, established in 2021 by The Dayton Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors from specific Dayton zip codes who exhibit a strong work ethic and plan to pursue education in a STEM-related field or business. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a history of successful employment. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering education and enhancing opportunities for youth in the community.

The Alexander-Bickley Scholarship, established in 2016, supports female graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools pursuing STEM degrees at accredited colleges. Inspired by Manuel Bickley's entrepreneurial spirit, this scholarship aims to empower recipients to achieve academic excellence and pursue their aspirations. Preference is given to applicants who have participated in band, emphasizing the importance of creativity alongside academic goals. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and honoring the legacy of the Bickley family.

The SMART Scholarship Program, managed by Scholarship America, provides substantial support to STEM students, offering full tuition, stipends between $30,000 and $46,000, and summer internships at DoD facilities. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers for high school seniors and current college students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With applications opening annually on August 1, the program fosters a strong community of scholars dedicated to innovation and research in STEM fields.

The PLTW Gateway program, in partnership with Arrow Electronics, aims to enhance STEM education in public and charter schools across the U.S. Funded by Lockheed Martin, this initiative provides $10,000 for schools to expand their existing PLTW Gateway programs. Eligible activities include adding new units and training teachers. Since its inception, over 300 programs have been established, reaching over 77,000 students and addressing the growing need for skilled engineers and computer scientists.

The PLTW Gateway program, supported by Lockheed Martin, offers grants for schools to implement STEM and CTE-aligned curricula. Aimed at enhancing educational access for students, it provides funding of $10,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year. Eligible schools include public and charter institutions across the U.S. This initiative, part of a long-standing partnership since 2007, addresses the critical need for future engineers and scientists, benefiting over 77,000 students through innovative coursework.

The PLTW Gateway Program Expansion, in partnership with Lockheed Martin, aims to enhance STEM education in schools across the United States. With a total grant of $10,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year, this initiative focuses on expanding existing PLTW Gateway programs, allowing schools to introduce new units and train additional teachers. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin's support has enabled over 300 programs, providing critical skills to more than 77,000 students nationwide.

The Gretchen Miller Bowker Scholarship, offered by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to women pursuing education in STEM fields. Designed to support tuition, room and board, and related fees, this scholarship aims to empower women in their educational journeys. Eligibility includes demonstrating financial need and enrollment in a qualifying program. With a commitment to building a community of opportunity, this scholarship is a vital resource for aspiring female STEM students.

The Donna Baxter Memorial STEM Scholarship Fund, established by Dan Baxter in honor of his wife, supports women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). Offered through the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, this scholarship aims to empower local female students by providing financial assistance for their educational aspirations. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record with a minimum weighted GPA of 3.5 and show a genuine interest in STEM both in and out of the classroom.

The Walter Camp STEM Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, offers financial support to Mendocino County high school seniors (excluding Ukiah High School) pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). This scholarship aims to empower students with a weighted GPA of 3.7-4.3 who demonstrate a passion for STEM through community service and related activities. It seeks to foster educational growth and professional aspirations in the field.

The Turtle Trackers - Linda Zambelli Family Scholarship Fund, established in 2025 by the Turtle Trackers Board, honors Linda Zambelli's legacy through scholarships for students pursuing higher education in Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences. This initiative supports high school seniors from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, ensuring they have opportunities to excel academically while fostering a commitment to marine conservation. The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which has invested over $125 million in local communities.

The Experiential Opportunities Career Development Award, funded by the Society of Toxicology, provides up to $1,000 to support underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postbaccalaureate researchers, in enhancing their education and career development in toxicology. Created in 2009, this initiative aims to promote diversity in the field. Four awards may be granted at each deadline, with funds supporting activities occurring by July 31 of the current fiscal year.

AFL Community Grants aim to empower education, youth, and life advancement through targeted community support. The program is designed for non-profit organizations, focusing on STEM education, youth development, and the LEAP initiative for adult self-sufficiency. With grant applications opening in 2025, AFL Global seeks to make a lasting impact in communities by addressing their greatest needs and fostering growth through education and development initiatives.

The Kathy & Suman Singha Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing education in STEM fields at 4-year universities, community colleges, or vocational colleges. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5. Full-time enrollment and participation in school and community activities are also required. This scholarship aims to empower students in the Elk Grove Unified School District area to achieve their academic and career goals.

The Darren Suen Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education at accredited colleges. Applicants must write a 300-word essay on their intended impact in the world through their STEM education. This scholarship is available to full-time students at 2-year or 4-year institutions within the Elk Grove Unified School District, fostering community development through educational opportunities.

The Robert Rector Scholarship honors a legacy of education in machining and tool making, founded by Robert Rector, who believed in the power of learning. This scholarship aims to support graduates from Cascade, Cashmere, and Richland High Schools who are pursuing careers in metallurgy. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher and demonstrate interest in Material Science classes. This initiative encourages young talents to develop essential skills in a high-demand industry.

The Howard D. Colman Scholarship supports high school seniors from Boone and Winnebago Counties pursuing degrees in engineering or technology fields. Established in memory of entrepreneur Howard D. Colman, the scholarship offers $2,500 in the first year, with potential renewal up to $10,000 for three additional years, contingent on meeting criteria. Recipients gain hands-on experience through internships with local firms, fostering connections to the Rockford area.

The Algebra 1 Advantage program, funded by the Ardagh Group through Project Lead The Way, aims to enhance educational opportunities for over 500,000 PreK-12 students in the U.S. by 2032. Schools eligible for this grant must offer the program in the 2026-2027 academic year, ensuring students gain essential skills for future success. This initiative focuses on real-world learning and teacher training, addressing educational inequities in local communities.

The Howard and Beverly Murray Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors high-achieving students pursuing education in math and science. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas high schools with a minimum GPA of 3.4. This scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate a commitment to their academic pursuits in fields like mathematics, physics, and chemistry, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in further education.

The BioLEAP Classroom Grants, funded by the National Anti Vivisection Society, support U.S. educators in purchasing humane alternatives to animal dissection. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for innovative learning tools like 3D models and synthetic specimens. This initiative promotes ethical education in anatomy labs, ensuring teachers have access to effective resources while fostering a compassionate approach to learning.

The Cadence First-Generation Student Scholarship aims to support first-generation college students by providing a one-time scholarship of up to $5,000. This initiative is part of Cadence's commitment to fostering diversity in the tech field and creating an inclusive environment. Eligible candidates must be enrolled full-time in a U.S. accredited institution, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and demonstrate leadership qualities and financial need. This scholarship encourages talented individuals to pursue their educational goals in technology.

The Latinos in Technology Scholarship, funded by the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, aims to empower Latino students pursuing STEM careers. Awardees receive up to $6,000 annually for their undergraduate education, with professional development opportunities, mentorship, and internship access. This initiative not only addresses the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM but also fosters a supportive community to help students transition successfully into the workforce.

The Samsung Semiconductor Scholarship is dedicated to supporting future innovators in STEM fields. This program targets exceptional undergraduate and master's students who are committed to full-time education at California public universities, with a preference for those in the greater Bay Area. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have declared a major in a STEM-related discipline. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovation, ensuring diverse voices contribute to the future of technology.

The Ernest B. and Marie H. Graham Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports current high school seniors pursuing studies in Mathematics or STEM fields. This renewable scholarship, available to students from select San Antonio school districts, covers tuition and fees for up to three years. Applicants must maintain a C average and enroll full-time in an accredited U.S. institution. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM.

The J&B Family Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Science, Engineering, Technology, or Math. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current college students under 40 with a minimum 3.0 GPA from Bexar County. The scholarship offers funding for tuition and other educational expenses for one student annually, fostering educational advancement and community development. This renewable scholarship can greatly assist those demonstrating financial need.

The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Scholarship Program, established by the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation in partnership with UNCF, supports students attending UNCF member institutions, HBCUs, or other accredited four-year colleges. This renewable merit-based scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for residents of specific counties in Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana, particularly focusing on those majoring in education or STEM fields.