Deadline: 31-May-2026
The Women and Girls in Astronomy Program (WGAP) supports projects that use astronomy as a tool for development while advancing opportunities for women, girls, and underrepresented genders in astronomy and STEM fields. The programme funds innovative projects that promote equity, inclusion, leadership, and participation in science through scientific, cultural, educational, social, technical, or artistic approaches.
Ten selected projects will each receive a USD 2,000 mini-grant. Eligible projects must take place in Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, or Greenland and must be completed by 10 December 2026.
Program Overview
The programme encourages projects that:
- Promote women and girls in astronomy and STEM
- Increase access to science education and opportunities
- Address barriers faced by underrepresented groups
- Use astronomy for education, community development, or social impact
- Support leadership, mentorship, and professional growth
Projects may explore astronomy through:
- Scientific activities
- Community engagement
- Cultural or artistic initiatives
- Technical innovation
- Educational outreach
- Social impact programmes
Funding Details
Selected projects will receive:
- USD 2,000 mini-grant
The programme will support:
- 10 projects
Eligible expenses may include:
- Printed materials
- Travel costs
- Stipends
- Food and refreshments
- Outreach materials
- Programme activities and logistics
Grant recipients will also become part of the WGAP network, which offers:
- Mentorship opportunities
- Professional development
- Networking support
- Career connections in astronomy and STEM
Who is Eligible?
Everyone is welcome to apply.
Projects must:
- Take place in Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, or Greenland
- Align with at least one NA-ROAD strategic goal
- Support women, girls, or underrepresented genders in astronomy or STEM
- Be completed by 10 December 2026
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit proposals through the official Google Form.
Applications should include:
- Project vision and goals
- Target audience
- Implementation plan
- Timeline for activities
- Detailed project budget
- Expected impact on beneficiaries
Applicants should clearly explain how the project will:
- Promote inclusion in astronomy and STEM
- Support underrepresented communities
- Create meaningful educational or professional opportunities
Selection Criteria
Projects will be evaluated based on:
- Alignment with programme goals
- Strength of project idea
- Target audience impact
- Feasibility of implementation
- Clear and realistic budget
- Contribution to equity and inclusion in astronomy
Responsibilities of Selected Applicants
Successful applicants will be expected to:
- Maintain communication with the WGAP Coordinator
- Provide regular project updates
- Attend milestone meetings
- Engage with WGAP mentors
- Present project outcomes at the end of the programme year
The programme concludes with a final presentation where project leaders share achievements and lessons learned.
Why This Program Matters
The Women and Girls in Astronomy Program helps expand access to astronomy and STEM opportunities for groups that are often underrepresented in science fields.
The programme supports:
- Gender equity in STEM
- Inclusive science education
- Youth empowerment
- Leadership development
- International collaboration
- Career pathways in astronomy
By combining astronomy with community engagement and education, the programme encourages broader participation in science and creates supportive networks for future STEM leaders.
Tips for a Strong Application
Strong applications usually:
- Clearly define the project’s goals
- Demonstrate community impact
- Include realistic timelines and budgets
- Show meaningful engagement with women and girls
- Explain how astronomy will be used as a development tool
Avoid:
- Unclear project objectives
- Weak implementation plans
- Incomplete budgets
- Limited explanation of impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much funding is available?
Each selected project will receive a USD 2,000 mini-grant.
How many projects will be funded?
The programme will fund 10 projects.
Who can apply?
Anyone is welcome to apply, provided the project meets the programme requirements.
Where must projects take place?
Projects must be based in:
- Canada
- United States
- Caribbean
- Mexico
- Greenland
What is the project completion deadline?
All activities must be completed by 10 December 2026.
What types of projects are supported?
Projects using astronomy for education, outreach, inclusion, leadership, community engagement, or artistic and cultural activities.
When will applicants be notified?
Grant recipients will be notified in late June.
Conclusion
The Women and Girls in Astronomy Program provides an important opportunity for organisations, educators, and community leaders to use astronomy as a platform for inclusion, education, and empowerment. With USD 2,000 mini-grants and access to the WGAP mentorship network, the programme supports impactful projects that advance women, girls, and underrepresented genders in astronomy and STEM fields.
For more information, visit NA-ROAD.