Accessing Equitable Access to STEM Careers for Disabled Women in Ohio
GrantID: 15
Grant Funding Amount Low: $15,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $1,500,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Equitable Access to STEM Careers for Disabled Women in Ohio
In Ohio, women with disabilities face particularly challenging barriers when entering the STEM fields. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that women with disabilities are significantly underrepresented in STEM careers, comprising only about 5% of the workforce despite making up a larger percentage of women overall. As the state hosts a variety of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, the need for equitable access to STEM jobs for disabled women remains a pressing issue that must be addressed.
These barriers manifest in numerous ways, including lack of accessible training programs, limited networking opportunities, and systemic stigmatization in educational and professional settings. Disabled women often report feeling unsafe or unsupported in pursuing careers in STEM due to environments that do not accommodate their needs. By providing targeted workshops and networking opportunities, this funding initiative aims to disrupt these persistent inequities and provide viable pathways for disabled women in Ohio to navigate STEM career options successfully.
To address these barriers effectively, the initiative will focus on creating workshops that not only provide skills development but will also connect participants with mentors and industry professionals. These workshops will be structured to accommodate various disabilities, ensuring that all participants can engage meaningfully. Assessment metrics will include tracking participant satisfaction and measuring career advancement among attendees post-workshop.
The funding will also support initiatives aimed at raising awareness among employers regarding the unique strengths and capabilities that disabled women bring to the workforce. Efforts to create an inclusive culture within the workplace will be a critical aspect of the program, enabling employers to understand and address their own biases. By fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion, Ohio can better attract and retain talented disabled women in the STEM sector.
Who Should Apply in Ohio
Organizations, schools, and community groups dedicated to empowering disabled women in Ohio are encouraged to apply for this funding opportunity. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to advocacy and inclusion, providing detailed plans for how they intend to address the unique barriers faced by this demographic in STEM fields.
The application process involves outlining the target audience, proposed programming, and a budget that demonstrates a clear understanding of the financial requirements for executing the initiative. Successful proposals will reflect collaboration with disabled women themselves, ensuring that their voices and experiences guide program development.
Evaluation and Implementation Approach
The expected outcomes of this funding initiative focus on creating measurable pathways to success for disabled women in STEM careers within Ohio. By equipping participants with both skills and resources, the initiative aims to foster growth and retention of disabled women in these vital fields. The impact will be evaluated through participant feedback and follow-up interviews, ensuring continuous improvement of the programs offered.
In building inclusive pathways into the workforce, Ohio can work toward dismantling systemic barriers that have historically marginalized women with disabilities. Ultimately, this funding seeks to empower a previously overlooked segment of the population, enhancing the diversity and innovation within Ohio’s workforce across STEM sectors.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
