Programs

  • STEM Advantage Program

    STEM Advantage levels the playing field by empowering talented students, who are mostly low-income, first-generation college students, with access to networks, employment, and economic mobility that students attending a private or elite public university receive. We designed a holistic program that benefits the student (STEM Advantage Scholar), their family and community resulting in a generational impact with a clear path to address the gender and racial wealth gaps. We selected California State University (CSU) as our first university partner because the CSU is the largest and most ethnically diverse four-year public university system in the nation, and grants over 50% of all undergraduate degrees earned by Californias Latinx, African American and Native American students. STEM Advantage focuses on women and underserved communities, who are mostly low-income, first-generation college students, earning a bachelors degree in a STEM field and enrolled full-time at California State University (CSU) campuses in Southern California the greater Los Angeles region, Orange County, and San Diego. All are Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).Our program extends beyond graduation supporting alumni with a network of corporate leaders and career development to help them advance in their careers, build wealth, and have a generational impact. Scholars and alumni Pay It Forward as role models and mentors to excite young girls and boys about STEM. If they can see it, they can be it! In Fall 2021, STEM Advantage launched a Freshmen STEM Career Pathways program to engage first-year college students, especially women, Black and Latinx students, provide exposure to STEM career opportunities, and drive persistence in a STEM major. In 2021, the Los Angeles Business Journal honored STEM Advantage as Diversity, Inclusion + Equity Nonprofit of the Year.Program impact:600 STEM Advantage Scholars100% graduation rate with persistence in a STEM major52% women87% students of color72% low-income, first-generation college students $75,000 average starting salary upon graduation, a sustainable, middle class living wageOver $1.5 million in scholarships awarded to help students graduate with less student debtWebsite: www.stemadvantage.org
    Geographies
    Not indicated
    Dates
    Jan 1, 2021 – Dec 31, 2021
    Source
    990
    No causes provided
    No populations provided
    –
    $398.4K

  • Program 1 [2024]

    Empowering the Next Generation of STEM Leaders. At STEM Advantage, we believe talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. We deliver a comprehensive, student-centered program designed to equip first-generation students with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to pursue and thrive in STEM careers. Our approach includes: Career Support: Targeted career programming that strengthens professional skills and builds confidence, empowering students to secure internships and entry-level positions in STEM fields. One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized mentorship from STEM professionals who serve as role models, offering guidance, support, and career coaching to help students navigate their academic and career journeys. Professional & Career Development: Interactive workshops, career panels, and industry events that prepare students for successful job searches, interviews, and career advancement. Scholarships: Financial support that enables students to attend classes full-time, get involved in a STEM-related club, and graduate with less student debt. Community and Networking: A robust support network that fosters a sense of belonging and provides students with opportunities to build connections with peers, alumni, and industry partners.We proudly serve students pursuing bachelor's degrees in STEM disciplines across California State University (CSU) campuses in Southern California, including the Greater Los Angeles region, Orange County, and San Diego. The CSU is the largest four-year public university system in the nationan incubator for untapped talent and ideal partner for driving impactful change at scale.Power of PartnershipsOur success is fueled by strong partnerships with leading companies and industry organizations. These partners not only provide funding and paid internships but also engage their employees as mentors, participate in career panels, and hire our graduates. Currently, STEM Advantage collaborates with over 50 companies, along with numerous professional and industry organizations, to create meaningful career pathways for our scholars.A Proven Track Record of Impact and Economic MobilitySince our founding in 2012, we have empowered over 1,000 Scholars with exceptional results: 100% have graduated with a bachelors degree in a STEM field. 72% are first-generation college students from low-income families. Scholars earn an average starting salary of $75,000a sustainable, middle-class living wage that represents a 400% increase over their average pre-program earnings. Scholars are projected to earn $2 million more in their lifetime post-programestablishing financial security, building wealth, and uplifting their families and communities.Our Scholars consistently describe the program as "life-changing and empowering," underscoring its ripple effectnot just on individual lives, but across communities. They are breaking cycles of poverty, achieving economic mobility, and becoming role models for future generations.
    Geographies
    Not indicated
    Dates
    Jan 1, 2024 – Dec 31, 2024
    Source
    990
    No causes provided
    No populations provided
    –
    $1M