Deadline: 1-Dec-2025
It seeks to invest in initiatives that directly support adolescent and young girls and women between the ages of twelve and thirty-five, particularly those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. The fund is inclusive of transgender and non-binary people, and places strong emphasis on diversity, equity and representation in STEM fields. Participants may include black, indigenous and people of colour, LGBTIQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, refugees, migrants, stateless people, sex workers, and those living in rural or marginalised urban areas.
Recognising that the demand for support will be high, the FREE STEM Fund intends to prioritise applications from underrepresented and traditionally excluded groups. Both registered and unregistered organisations, collectives and initiatives are eligible to apply, provided they are committed to advancing the rights of girls, women, transgender and non-binary people through their work. The fund operates through two main models, each tailored to meet the needs of groups at different stages of development.
The AtoM model provides between €15,000 and €20,000 over two years and is designed to support new or smaller initiatives working to promote gender equity in STEM. This model allows emerging organisations to strengthen their activities, experiment with innovative approaches and build capacity for long-term impact. The Molecule model offers up to €50,000 over two years and is intended for organisations with more experience—those that can demonstrate at least two years of work in STEM and gender equity or a minimum of three years in STEM education and training. Unregistered organisations seeking more than €15,000 must identify a registered fiscal sponsor to manage the funds on their behalf.
To be eligible, an organisation must have at least three members and align with the mission and vision of FREE STEM. Proposals must focus on the target group and relate to at least one of the fund’s thematic areas, particularly education and training. A strong commitment to inclusive leadership is essential, with a requirement that at least sixty percent of leadership positions are held by women, transgender or non-binary individuals. Preference will be given to organisations that are women-led, transgender-led or non-binary-led, ensuring that leadership reflects the communities served.
In addition, applicants must have an annual organisational income of no more than €150,000 for the year 2024, as the fund primarily aims to strengthen grassroots efforts that have limited access to traditional funding sources. By investing in smaller, community-driven initiatives, FREE STEM supports the creation of inclusive pathways into STEM education and careers while challenging systemic barriers that continue to exclude many from these fields.
Overall, the FREE STEM Fund represents an opportunity to empower marginalised voices and foster a more equitable future in science and technology. It offers financial support, visibility and validation to organisations that are reimagining STEM as a space where gender, identity and innovation intersect to create lasting change.
For more information, visit Women win.
