Australian organizations have a new chance to fund exciting STEM projects for kids and teens. The Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026 offer up to $100,000 for hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. This program targets youth under 18 and focuses on groups often left out of STEM activities.
What Are These Grants?
The Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026 support projects outside regular classrooms. They help build skills through building, testing, and exploring ideas. Groups can use the money to run workshops, maker spaces, or tech camps that spark creativity and problem-solving.
These grants fit into Australia’s push for better STEM education. They stress real-world practice over just reading about concepts. Young people get to experiment with coding, robotics, and engineering in fun ways.
Funding Amounts
Grants range from $20,000 to $100,000 per project. This cash covers costs to design and run STEM activities for kids under 18. Organizations can plan bigger programs with this support.
Who Can Apply?
Not-for-profit groups and other approved organizations qualify if they meet the rules. They need an eligible project and proper spending plans. Check the full guidelines for details on approved entities.
Priority Groups
The program boosts STEM access for those who need it most. It targets:
- Women and girls
- First Nations youth
- Kids in regional, rural, or remote areas
- Culturally diverse communities
- Young people with disabilities
- Those from low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds
Projects serving these groups stand out in reviews.
Eligible Project Ideas
Funded activities must be community-based and hands-on. They target youth under 18 with inquiry-based learning. Good examples include:
- STEM workshops
- Coding and robotics sessions
- Maker spaces for building
- Engineering challenges
- Innovation labs
- Tech camps
- Science events
Focus on active involvement to develop skills.
Main Goals
The grants aim to meet clear targets:
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Hands-On Learning: Let kids experiment with tech, engineering, and programming.
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Creativity Boost: Build problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills.
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Career Interest: Show real-world STEM uses to guide future paths.
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Better Access: Reach underserved areas and groups.
These steps help create a stronger STEM workforce.
Expected Results
Funded projects should lead to:
- Better STEM knowledge and skills
- More kids joining activities
- Stronger innovation thinking
- Wider access to learning
- Lasting interest in science careers
Communities gain from skilled youth ready for the future.
How to Apply
Start by reading the grant guidelines closely. They cover eligibility, rules, and what judges look for.
Next, use the online portal to apply. Log in or create an account.
Fill out details on your project, budget, goals, and group info. Add proof of impact.
Submit by the deadline: Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM AEST. Early applications help avoid issues.
Assessment Process
Judges review based on:
- Fit with program goals
- Impact on youth
- Inclusion efforts
- Project strength and realism
- Community ties
- Good use of funds
Clear plans with strong outcomes win.
Why Apply Now?
STEM skills matter more as tech changes jobs and life. Many kids miss out due to location or background. These grants fix that by funding local, practical programs.
They support jobs growth, fair education, and new ideas. For details, see the official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding amounts are available for these grants?
Grants range from $20,000 to $100,000 per project to cover costs for designing and running STEM activities for kids under 18.
Who can apply for the Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants?
Not-for-profit groups and other approved organizations qualify if they have an eligible project and proper spending plans.
What is the application deadline?
Submit by Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM AEST through the online portal.
Which groups does the program prioritize?
It targets women and girls, First Nations youth, kids in regional or remote areas, culturally diverse communities, youth with disabilities, and those from low-income backgrounds.
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