Deadline Date: February 18, 2026
The Women in STEM and Entrepreneurship program has launched a funding opportunity encouraging Australian organisations to support the participation of girls and women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics leading to STEM education and careers.
The focus areas of the opportunity are increasing awareness and participation of girls and women in STEM education and careers, increasing awareness and participation of girls and women in other parts of the innovation ecosystem including innovative businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurial activities and careers, increasing the number of women in senior leadership and decision-making positions in government, research organisations, industry and businesses, reducing and/or mitigating systemic and cultural barriers to participation in STEM education, careers, innovation and entrepreneurship by girls and women, reducing the multiplier effect of intersectional barriers to participation, development and leadership of girls and women in STEM education, careers, innovation and entrepreneurship, addressing inequality or discrimination against girls and women in STEM education, careers, innovation and/or entrepreneurship, and broadening and strengthening networks and support for girls and women in STEM education, careers, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Australian Government has announced a total of $9.77 million for the program, and this grant opportunity offers funding between $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 for projects that aim to increase women’s and girls’ participation in STEM and entrepreneurship. The program supports investment in gender equity initiatives to create lasting systemic change by eliminating barriers to participation in STEM education and careers.
Eligible entities include Australian businesses, publicly funded research organisations, VET and TAFE institutions, and not-for-profit organisations. Applications must be delivered by organisations holding an Australian Business Number and must propose co-designed projects that build STEM skills and strengthen opportunities for women and girls.
The funding encourages organisations to deliver community and industry-focused programs that enhance pathways for girls and women into STEM fields, support their development in the innovation ecosystem, and elevate them into leadership and decision-making roles.
For more information, visit Australian Government.
