Best STEM Education Grants in Rhode Island

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 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 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 Equity in Mathematics Grant (PK-6) aims to enhance mathematics education for underrepresented student groups, addressing disparities linked to race, gender, and culture. Funded by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, this grant supports innovative classroom materials and lesson plans that focus on improving student achievement. Eligible applicants include classroom teachers and collaborative groups. The initiative seeks proposals that reflect best practices in mathematics education while fostering equity and inclusivity in learning environments.

American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate students in STEM or related fields can receive $5,000 scholarships for full-time study at accredited U.S. institutions, including those in Rhode Island. Native Forward Scholars Fund supports degrees focused on environment, energy, cultural sustainability, or STEM that prepare students for the renewable energy workforce.

Rhode Island Indigenous students pursuing STEM-related vocational or trade programs can access funding through the American Indian Science and Engineering Society for the Indian Motorcycle + Polaris Trade Scholarship, with awards of US $2,000. Eligible applicants must be AISES members enrolled full time at an accredited institution in approved certificate or vocational fields.

Female high school seniors pursuing STEM or medical majors can apply for Erie County Community Foundation’s Zonta Club of Greater Sandusky High School STEM Scholarship Fund. Eligible applicants must reside in Erie, Huron, or Ottawa counties in Ohio and attend an accredited nonprofit college, university, community college, or vocational school in the U.S.; Rhode Island schools may qualify.

Rhode Island American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing full-time STEM degrees can access funding through the Native Forward Scholars Fund, with awards ranging from US $100 - US $30,000 per academic year. Eligible applicants must attend an accredited institution in the U.S. and document Tribal affiliation with a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Erie County, PA high school seniors pursuing post-secondary study in science, math, business, art, or music can access funding through the Dr. Alice M. Hudder–Richard T. Molder Post-Secondary Scholarship Fund. Students interested in STEM or STEAM fields, including those similar to Rhode Island STEM education programs, may be eligible if they meet GPA and financial-need preferences.

High school seniors pursuing STEM degrees at U.S. colleges, universities, or technical institutions can receive US $10,000 for tuition and related educational costs. Aiaa Foundation and Club for the Future support students facing disabilities, socioeconomic challenges, or first-generation status, and Rhode Island students meeting these criteria may be eligible, including mentorship toward an aerospace career.

AAUW branches and state organizations in Rhode Island designing or running hands-on STEM programs for girls in grades K–12 can receive up to US $10,000 to expand their impact. American Association of University Women (AAUW) supports projects focused on STEM skills, confidence and identity, college and career prep, and mentoring by women in STEM.

Rhode Island STEM / STEAM education organizations serving girls in grades K–12 can access funding through the American Association of University Women for community-based STEM projects. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tax-exempt schools, and fiscally sponsored groups may receive up to US $50,000 for hands-on learning, mentorship, and confidence-building experiences for girls in STEM.

High-achieving high school seniors pursuing STEM or other undergraduate studies can receive up to US $32,000 in scholarship support from Communities Foundation of Texas. The Carter Creech Scholarship aids Troy Buchanan High School graduates attending four-year colleges. Students interested in STEM education in Rhode Island may find this model similar to scholarships in their own region.

Focused on STEM and higher education, Catholic Community Foundation invites Rhode Island students pursuing chemistry or engineering to apply for this academic scholarship. Eligible applicants are full-time seniors at Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Phoenix who are practicing Catholics and U.S. citizens or permanent residents; the one-time award is US $5,000 toward freshman-year tuition.

Graduating high school seniors pursuing STEM-related or other education and healthcare studies can receive scholarship support for four-year colleges in Nebraska. Lincoln Community Foundation’s Dr. Jim and Betsy Bobenhouse Scholarship awards US $2,000, with preference for Lancaster County students active in extracurriculars or community service who demonstrate financial need and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.

Native American and Alaska Native higher education students in STEM fields who are completing approved internships, including those in Rhode Island, can receive funding for travel, housing, and commuting costs. Native Forward Scholars Fund, in partnership with the BIE, supports internships with Department of Interior bureaus or other approved STEM-related placements, with priority for education-focused STEM training.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

The Graduate Professional Advancement Grant at Montana State University provides funding for graduate students in their 3rd semester or higher to present at professional conferences. This grant encourages scholarly research and supports students by covering travel costs, up to $750. Applications are reviewed monthly on a first-come, first-serve basis, and funding is limited based on availability. Students must be in good standing and have their committee on file to be eligible.

The MSU Graduate Teaching Scholarships recognize the vital role graduate students play in undergraduate education by providing financial support for their teaching efforts. Eligible candidates must have a graduate teaching assistantship, complete professional development, and apply before the semester starts. Scholarships range from $250 to $1000, promoting excellence in teaching and enriching the educational experience at Montana State University.

The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Bridge to Doctorate Scholars Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to recruit and retain minority graduate students in STEM fields. This program offers significant benefits, including a $32,000 annual stipend and $12,000 educational allowance for two years, fostering a supportive community through monthly dinners for Indigenous graduate students. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, and have participated in an LSAMP program.

The Sloan Indigenous Graduate Partnership (SIGP) Scholarship Program, funded by the A.P. Sloan Foundation, aims to support Indigenous graduate students in STEM fields. This program, a collaboration among the Montana University System institutions, offers scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities to enhance the academic journey of Indigenous students. With awards of $20,000 for M.S. and $40,000 for Ph.D. candidates, the SIGP seeks to increase the number of Indigenous scholars earning advanced degrees in science and engineering.

The Bernick Family Trades Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, aims to support high school seniors pursuing advanced education in technical or community college programs. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each are available. Eligible applicants must live in the Bernick Service Area and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Preference is given to students in fields related to the Bernick business, such as Mechanics, Transportation, and Accounting. This initiative seeks to empower local youth and foster community growth.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Awards

Cooper Black Award for Creativity

The Copper Black Award for Creative Achievement honors Mensa members whose innovative solutions and practical creativity have brought meaningful benefits to the world.

Details

The Copper Black Award annually recognizes Mensa International members who have demonstrated a specific creative achievement with practical value. This award honors innovations that have been implemented, at least in part, to benefit others.

Award Components

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Emily & Frank Smiddy who established the Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Frank Smiddy, former owner of ProAct Environmental Services located in Ludington, has always had a passion for STEM-related learning and wants to give back to the community where he owns his business. He and his wife, Emily, wanted to leave a legacy of students going into this field the best chance possible to get their college education with as little debt as possible, so they established the Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship Fund. It is their hope that students receiving this scholarship will be motivated, when they are financially able, to give back to the community to help others see success.