Empowering Women in STEM: Top Initiatives and Scholarships

Women have been shaping Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) for years, yet they still face challenges in these fields. From limited representation to fewer opportunities, the gender gap remains an issue. But change is happening. More organisations and scholarships are stepping up to provide support, inspiration, and resources. These efforts are not just about fairness—they drive innovation by ensuring diverse perspectives contribute to better solutions for all. 

Leading initiatives supporting women in STEM 

Girls Who Code (GWC) 

Closing the gender gap in tech starts early, and Girls Who Code is making that happen. Their Clubs programme introduces coding to girls as young as eight, while high school students can explore fields like AI and cybersecurity through Pathways. For college students, GWC Labs offers job readiness support. So far, they have helped 670,000 girls, women, and non-binary individuals develop coding skills. In 2024 alone, 8,000 students were trained in AI. Their “Girls Who Code Girls” project also lets users design diverse gaming characters using code, making tech more inclusive and fun. 

Stemettes 

Bringing more diversity to STEM careers is the mission of Stemettes, a UK and Ireland-based social enterprise. It all started in 2012 when Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, one of only three women in her university maths and computer science class, saw the lack of diversity in STEM. Inspired by the Grace Hopper Celebration, she launched Stemettes to make STEM careers fun, accessible, and inclusive. The organisation provides free workshops, mentoring, and networking events, helping young people make informed career choices. By working with schools, businesses, and communities, Stemettes ensures the next generation of leaders brings fresh ideas and real change to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths). 

Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) 

For 40 years, WISE has been helping women navigate STEM careers. Launched in the UK, the initiative started as a way to highlight opportunities in science and engineering. Today, it offers mentorship, career guidance, and campaigns that encourage companies to create more inclusive workplaces. WISE believes diversity leads to better ideas, stronger teams, and meaningful innovation. 

TechGirlz 

Introducing young girls to technology is what TechGirlz does best. Based in the US, they run free workshops on web design, robotics, and data science, showing middle school girls that STEM is for them too. Their “TechShopz in a Box” programme provides ready-made lesson plans so anyone can run a workshop in their community. By empowering young girls and educators alike, TechGirlz is shaping a new generation of women in tech. 

AnitaB.org 

Named after computing pioneer Anita Borg, this global organisation is dedicated to supporting women in technology. They host the annual Grace Hopper Celebration, the world’s largest gathering of women in computing, connecting thousands of women with industry leaders and job opportunities. Beyond that, AnitaB.org runs mentorship programmes, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts to push for better policies in tech workplaces. Their goal is simple: a future where women lead in technology. 

Top scholarships supporting women in STEM 

BHW Women in STEM Scholarship 

This scholarship, valued at £2,300, is designed for undergraduate and master’s students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or maths. Offered by The BHW Group, a team of developers and problem solvers, it aims to reduce financial stress and encourage more women to enter STEM careers. More diversity means better ideas, and this scholarship is one step towards that. 

Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship 

Technology is reshaping how we live and work, yet women remain underrepresented in the industry. This scholarship helps change that by supporting future female tech leaders. It provides financial assistance to women pursuing careers in technology, encouraging innovation and inclusivity. More women in tech means smarter solutions and a more diverse, forward-thinking industry. 

WTS Foundation Scholarships 

Women pursuing careers in transportation can benefit from several WTS Foundation scholarships. These include the Sharon D. Banks Undergraduate Scholarship (£3,900), Helene M. Overly Graduate Scholarship (£7,800), Molitoris Leadership Scholarship (£3,900), and Bridgette Beato Leadership Scholarship (£3,900). There are also smaller awards like the Junior College/Trade School Scholarship (£1,950) and the Transportation YOU High School Scholarship (£1,950). These scholarships provide the funding and opportunities women need to take on leadership roles in the transportation industry. 

Progress Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM 

Supporting young women in India, this scholarship covers tuition and education expenses for undergraduate STEM students. By easing financial barriers, it encourages more women to pursue STEM careers, helping to close the gender gap in these fields. 

Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship 

Encouraging more women to enter STEM fields is the goal of this scholarship. Hyundai supports female students in STEM-related education, recognising their role in shaping the future of sustainable mobility and technological advancements. 

Distilled 

The gender gap in STEM is still a challenge, but organisations and scholarships are making a real difference. From Girls Who Code to Stemettes and WISE, mentorship and career support are opening doors. Scholarships like the BHW Women in STEM and Elevate Women in Technology help remove financial barriers. These efforts are not just about equality—they ensure a future where diverse perspectives drive better innovation and progress for all.