Up to £150,000 to Help Young People into STEM Careers – STEM Pathways Fund

The STEM Pathways Fund, launched by Mission 44 and Santander UK Foundation, is a £500,000 grant programme supporting organisations helping disadvantaged young people aged 16–19 in Further Education in England progress into STEM careers, apprenticeships, higher education or technical training.

Here’s what you can expect:

• £75,000–£150,000 per grant

• Up to four organisations expected to receive funding

• £500,000 total fund

• Funding for up to 24 months

• Funding is intended to be flexible and, where appropriate, unrestricted

• Mentoring, coaching and access to STEM role models

• Employer engagement and industry exposure

• Work experience, placements and internships

• Careers and progression support

• Confidence, skills and leadership development

• Collaborative projects involving FE providers, STEM employers and communities.

Who can apply?

• Registered charities

• Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs)

• CICs limited by guarantee

• Community Benefit Societies with an asset lock

• Cooperative Societies with an asset lock

• Other not-for-profit organisations with an asset lock

• Further Education Colleges and designated Sixth Form Colleges

• Applicants must work with 16–19-year-olds in Further Education settings in England

• Particular interest in organisations working outside London

• Applicants should have experience supporting young people into STEM or demonstrate a credible partnership with FE colleges.

The fund particularly aims to support young people experiencing barriers including financial hardship, caring responsibilities, unmet SEND needs, limited professional networks and underrepresentation in STEM.

Deadline: 9 September 2026 at 5:00pm.