Best STEM Education Grants in West Virginia

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 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.

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 EQT Foundation offers the PLTW Launch grant to support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Launch programs. Eligible schools must actively participate in PLTW Launch and can utilize the funds for program enhancements, such as adding new modules or training more teachers. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities in STEM for students in specific counties of Pennsylvania and West Virginia, ensuring broader access to innovative learning.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Milton and Ruby McClendon Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

Thomas S. Ritter Memorial Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to assist students who are attending or plan to attend a college or university and who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside of the classroom.

Award

• Varies

Focused on STEM and environmental studies, this scholarship supports Wenatchee High School and Westside High School graduates pursuing STEM majors, with funds dispersed once they are accepted into their college major. West Virginia STEM education organizations may know students who fit these criteria and can help them connect with the Community Foundation of North Central Washington.

American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate students pursuing STEM, environment, energy, or cultural sustainability degrees at accredited U.S. institutions can receive $5,000 scholarships for tuition and related educational costs. Grants from Native Forward Scholars Fund help students, including those from West Virginia, with demonstrated tribal affiliation and financial need advance toward renewable energy and STEM careers.

Indigenous students pursuing STEM-related vocational or trade programs in West Virginia can receive US $2,000 in scholarship support for full-time study. American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) partners with Indian Motorcycle and Polaris Foundation to fund AISES-member students in fields like welding, clean energy, automotive or diesel technology, IT, construction, and related areas.

Female high school seniors pursuing STEM or medical majors can receive scholarship support for higher education, though this fund serves residents of Erie, Huron, or Ottawa County, Ohio rather than West Virginia. Erie County Community Foundation’s Zonta Club of Greater Sandusky High School STEM Scholarship Fund supports study at accredited nonprofit U.S. colleges, universities, community colleges, or vocational schools.

American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing full-time STEM degrees at accredited institutions, including those from West Virginia, can receive need-based scholarships ranging from US $100 - US $30,000 per year. Focused on STEM education, Native Forward Scholars Fund supports undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who can demonstrate Tribal affiliation through a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

High school seniors pursuing STEM or arts-related post-secondary studies can receive scholarship support that may benefit students in West Virginia and beyond. Grants from Erie Community Foundation help West Virginia STEM / STEAM education students who demonstrate financial need, strong work ethic, and a minimum 3.0 GPA as they attend any college or university.

West Virginia high school seniors pursuing STEM degrees can access funding through the Aiaa Foundation’s Future’s Resilient Student Scholarship, which supports students entering aerospace-related and other STEM programs. One U.S. student demonstrating financial need and overcoming challenges such as disability, socioeconomic hardship, or being first-generation in college will receive a US $10,000 award plus mentorship from an AIAA professional member.

AAUW branches and state organizations implementing hands-on STEM programs for girls in grades K–12 can apply for funding up to US $10,000. Focused on STEM/STEAM education, the American Association of University Women invites affiliates in West Virginia and nationwide to support skill-building, confidence, college and career preparation, and mentoring for girls in STEM.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and tax-exempt educational institutions running K–12 girls’ STEM programs in West Virginia can seek funding to deliver community-based STEM education projects. The American Association of University Women offers up to US $50,000 for hands-on learning, mentorship with women in STEM, family engagement, and confidence-building experiences, with a focus on underrepresented communities.

West Virginia STEM / STEAM education programs can access funding through the Carter Creech Scholarship, which supports high-achieving students pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM-related or other fields. Offered by Communities Foundation of Texas, this scholarship provides up to US $32,000 for graduating seniors of Troy Buchanan High School in Troy, Missouri who meet rigorous academic criteria.

West Virginia STEM / STEAM education students planning to major in chemistry or engineering may be eligible for the Ralph M. Knight Chemistry & Engineering Scholarship, a one-time US $5,000 freshman-year tuition award. Funding from Catholic Community Foundation supports full-time Catholic high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Graduating high school seniors pursuing STEM or related fields can receive US $2,000 for higher education through scholarships from Lincoln Community Foundation, including the Dr. Jim and Betsy Bobenhouse Scholarship. Nebraska students from Lancaster County planning to attend a four-year in-state college, especially in education or healthcare, may be eligible.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.

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 MCTS Legacy Scholarship Program, established by the Mobile County Training School Alumni Association in collaboration with UNCF, offers ten $3,500 need-based scholarships for MCTS attendees or their descendants. This initiative aims to support educational pursuits among students connected to MCTS, enhancing access to higher education. Recipients will be notified within eight weeks after the application deadline, promoting academic success and community engagement. The program reflects UNCF's commitment to empowering minority students and fostering leadership.