Even though the numbers are growing, the rate of women in STEM is still extremely low. According to recent data, 72% of the STEM workforce is currently made up of men. The STEM gender gap is caused by the lack of female role models, harmful stereotypes, and a male-dominated work environment. Luckily, there are a few institutions whose goal is to overcome this discrepancy by supporting women in STEM.

1. National Girls Collaborative Project

The National Girls Collaborative Project (NGCP) is a network of networks empowering educators, leaders, youth, and providers to create a community of ‘lifelong STEM activators’. NGCP is present in 41 US states and brings together organizations and individuals wanting to increase gender equity in STEM.

2. Association for Women in Science 

The main goal of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is to ensure women in STEM have the tools and opportunities to reach their full potential. This organization provides networking, leadership, and career development opportunities for all women working in these fields. AWIS also offers several webinars covering topics ranging from sexual harassment in the workspace to discrimination and psychological well-being. 

3. National Center for Women & Information Technology

The National Center for Women & Information Technology is a nonprofit whose aim is to increase the number of women working in computing and technology. This organization is dedicated to making companies’ recruiting processes more inclusive and offers a variety of scholarships and internships, encouraging female students to enter these fields. 

4. Million Women Mentors

Million Women Mentors empower all women choosing STEM as their career path. They do so by providing young girls interested in these fields with female mentors supporting them in their choices. Million Women Mentors are active in several US states as well as in other countries such as India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Mexica, the UK, and Ireland. 

5. TechWomen

TechWomen is an organization active in Africa, Central and South Asia, and the Middle East and dedicated to supporting women in STEM. This organization provides individuals with access to networks, mentors, and programs to develop their careers. In the last few years, TechWomen has given the opportunity to hundreds of women from all over the world to fly to the US to attend workshops and networking events to advance in their careers.