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AAUW Community Action Grants

American Association of University Women

AAUW believes in building a more equitable future through transformative STEM education. Community Action Grants offer up to $50,000 with flexible grant periods to support nonprofits and educational institutions dedicated to helping girls in grades K–12 build the skills, confidence, and preparation they need to thrive in STEM.

Strong proposals clearly align with AAUW’s approach and incorporate one or more of the following elements:

Hands-on STEM learning experiences
Mentorship or exposure to women in STEM
Family or caregiver encouragement
Intentional confidence, identity, or belonging-building experiences.

Projects are not required to include all of these elements to be eligible. However, proposals that integrate multiple elements in a cohesive and intentional way may be more competitive, as they are more strongly aligned with AAUW’s approach to impact.

AAUW is particularly interested in supporting projects that reach girls from historically underrepresented communities, ensuring broader and more equitable participation in STEM.

This is a two-step process; applicants must submit a Letter of Interest (LOI), and selected applicants will be invited to complete a full application. Please review full application process instructions in the “Application Process” section below.

Community Action Grants Theory of Change

AAUW’s Theory of Change is grounded in the belief that:

When girls are immersed in supportive, engaging STEM environments and have access to relatable role models, they develop lasting interest, confidence, identity, and skills in STEM, which increases their likelihood of pursuing STEM education and careers.

This belief underpins the design of the Community Action Grants program and informs how applications are evaluated.

More Than Just Funding

Becoming an AAUW grantee means joining a community committed to driving systemic change in STEM through gender equity. This opportunity extends beyond financial support, offering evolving pathways for collaboration, visibility, and growth. Grantees become part of a forward-thinking network that fosters shared learning, elevates voices shaping the future of STEM, and builds capacity for long-term impact.

AI Based Application Success Predictor

1. Outstanding academic and scholarly excellence (Highest Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

This is the most important criterion across nearly all AAUW funding programs.

Competitive applicants should demonstrate:

Excellent academic record
Strong research achievements
High-quality publications (where applicable)
Academic distinction
Evidence of scholarly excellence

Applications should clearly show the applicant's ability to complete the proposed educational or research program successfully. (aauw.org)

2. Potential to advance women and girls (Highest Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A defining feature of AAUW funding is its mission-driven focus.

Competitive proposals should clearly explain how the applicant's work will:

Advance gender equity
Improve opportunities for women and girls
Promote educational access
Increase women's leadership
Address barriers to equality

Projects aligned with AAUW's mission are significantly more competitive. (aauw.org)

3. Leadership potential and community impact (Highest Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Reviewers look for evidence that applicants have:

Leadership experience
Community engagement
Professional achievements
Service activities
Potential to become leaders in their fields

Applicants should demonstrate that they will make meaningful contributions beyond academia. (aauw.org)

4. Strong and feasible project or study plan (Highest Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Competitive applications include:

Clearly defined objectives
Well-developed research or educational plan
Realistic timeline
Achievable milestones
Appropriate methodology (for research proposals)

The proposed plan should demonstrate both quality and feasibility within the funding period. (aauw.org)

5. Clear long-term career goals (Very High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Applicants should explain:

Career objectives
Professional development plans
Long-term vision
How AAUW funding will contribute to career advancement

Reviewers favor applicants with a well-articulated pathway toward leadership and impact. (aauw.org)

6. Demonstrated need for funding (Very High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

For several AAUW programs, reviewers consider:

Financial need
Educational expenses
Career transition needs
Lack of alternative funding

Applicants should clearly explain why AAUW support is important for achieving their goals. (aauw.org)

7. Strong letters of recommendation (Very High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Recommendations should demonstrate:

Academic ability
Leadership qualities
Research potential
Professional integrity
Capacity for future achievement

Well-written, detailed recommendations from knowledgeable referees strengthen an application. (aauw.org)

8. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)

AAUW values applicants who:

Promote diversity
Support inclusive education
Address inequities
Contribute to underserved communities

Activities reflecting these values strengthen competitiveness. (aauw.org)

9. Relevant experience and professional accomplishments (High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)

Reviewers consider:

Previous employment
Research experience
Publications
Awards
Volunteer activities
Professional achievements

A strong track record supports confidence in future success. (aauw.org)

10. Complete, well-prepared application (High Predictor ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)

Successful applications include:

Complete documentation
Well-written essays
Accurate transcripts
Required recommendation letters
Compliance with eligibility criteria
Timely submission

Attention to detail and adherence to program requirements are essential. (aauw.org)

Specialties

Others

Eligibility Requirements

Eligible applicants must fall into one of three categories:

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization;
Tax-exempt educational institution (K-12 school, college, or University); or
Organizations that are fiscally sponsored by a nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Eligible organizations must be based in the United States and its territories, and the project described in the grant proposal must also be located in the United States and its territories.

While religious organizations are eligible to apply for a grant, projects must be secular in nature.

Eligible projects must be designed exclusively for participants who identify as girls.

Eligible Countries:

United States

Sponsor Details

Sponsor Institute/Organizations: American Association of University Women

Sponsor Type: Corporate/Non-Profit

Address: 1310 L St. NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20005 202.785.7700

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