Intel Foundation Joins Launch of STEM Diversity Initiative “Million Girls Moonshot”
The Intel Foundation announced that it has joined with the STEM Next Opportunity Fund and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to launch the Million Girls Moonshot initiative, aiming to close the STEM gender gap by inspiring girls to dream big and pursue engineering and computer science careers.
According to the initiative, the percentage of women receiving undergraduate degrees in engineering has remained relatively flat over the past two decades, at between 18% and 21%, while in computer science the number has declined from 28% to 19%. Working together with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation’s after-school networks, Million Girls Moonshot aims to transform engineering and computer science learning opportunities for girls and their families. Over the next 5 years, the movement will partner with other organizations, with a target of reaching 1 million girls, providing:
- Engaging, equity-focused STEM programs and mentorships that create pathways to inspire and support girls pursuing STEM in high school and beyond.
- Grant funding and in-kind resources through the Mott Foundation’s robust network of after-school and out-of-school programs across the U.S. to increase access to hands-on, immersive STEM learning experiences. Resources include technical assistance, educational resources, special curriculum from NASA, and access to Intel’s She Will Connect program partners and employee volunteers.
- A scalable and collective impact approach designed to reach girls living in underserved communities who can benefit the most from this movement and build on existing community strengths. Million Girls Moonshot will scale Intel Foundation’s efforts and leverage a diverse group of cross-sector funding and program partners to deepen its impact.
Pia Wilson-Body, President, Intel Foundation, said:
“Girls are the future innovators, engineers and entrepreneurs. They have the potential to change the world. The Million Girls Moonshot will provide opportunities to ignite a lifelong passion for STEM. By investing in girls, we empower them to become the innovators our society needs, and we’re proud to be a leader in this movement.”