Future & Legacy: Black Youth in STEM Theme: Empowering the Next Generation

The future of STEM is being shaped today by young Black innovators, scientists, and technologists. At STEMByte Initiative, we are committed to ensuring that Black students have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive in STEM careers. By investing in education, providing scholarships, and creating pathways to professional growth, we aim to empower the next generation to carry forward a legacy of excellence and innovation.

Bridging the Gap: STEM Programs for Black Youth

Representation in STEM is more than just numbers—it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity, opportunity, and success. Here are some programs dedicated to supporting Black students in their STEM journey:

• Howard University’s Karsh STEM Scholars Program – A full scholarship program for high-achieving Black students pursuing STEM degrees.

• Black Girls Code – Focused on teaching young Black girls the fundamentals of coding and software development.

• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Pre-College Initiative (PCI) – Provides resources and competitions to prepare K-12 students for STEM careers.

• Google’s Tech Exchange – A partnership with HBCUs and Minority-Serving Institutions to give Black students hands-on training in computer science and engineering.

  
  

Scholarships & Financial Support

The financial burden of higher education should never be a barrier to success. Here are some scholarships specifically designed for Black students in STEM:

• Google Lime Scholarship – Supports students from underrepresented communities in computer science and related fields.

• National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) Scholarship – Focuses on increasing the number of Black engineers through financial assistance.

• Stephen Francis McNally Scholarship – Provides degree completion awards for students of color enrolled in a UNCF member institution, HBCU, or accredited four-year college or university. Deadline: February 27, 2025.

• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship – Awards scholarships to African-American high school seniors pursuing STEM degrees. Deadline: February 28, 2025.

• Transformative Legacy Scholarship Program – Offers full tuition coverage for four years at an in-state college or university for Louisiana high school seniors. Application Window: February 10, 2025 – March 15, 2025.

• UNCF Olay Face the STEM Gap Scholarship – Supports African American women pursuing STEM fields. Deadline: May 31, 2025.

• Actuarial Diversity Scholarship – Promotes diversity within the actuarial profession. Deadline: June 1, 2025.

• Rizing Tide Crest Scholarship – Supports underrepresented students pursuing physical therapy degrees. Deadline: May 31, 2025.

  
  

Internship & Career Development Opportunities

Real-world experience is vital for launching a successful career in STEM. Check out these internships that provide hands-on experience and professional development:

• NASA Internships for Minority Students – Provides research opportunities for Black students in aerospace and engineering fields.

• Microsoft Explore Internship Program – Designed for first- and second-year college students in STEM disciplines.

• IBM Accelerate Program – Offers paid internships with mentorship and skill-building workshops.

• AFSCME Union Scholars Program Summer Internship – A 10-week summer internship focused on social justice and labor rights. Amount: $10,800. Deadline: February 28, 2025.

• Patti Grace Smith Fellowship – Provides paid internships, scholarships, and mentorship for Black undergraduate students pursuing aerospace careers.

• American Gastroenterological Association’s Dr. Harvey Young Education & Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholars Program – Supports underrepresented students in biomedical research related to digestive diseases.

  
  

Building the Future Together

We invite you to share these opportunities with students, educators, and aspiring professionals in your network. By spreading awareness and fostering connections, we can help Black youth access the resources and support they need to excel in STEM fields.