While the graduate and post-graduate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) population fails to reflect the demographic composition of the United States, the discrepancy is further exaggerated in Science Policy, Advocacy, Communication, and Diplomacy (Sci-PACD). This lack of diverse narratives and perspectives throughout the policy making space impedes our collective ability to be more innovative, effective, and equitable.

As part of a broader initiative toward enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM and Sci-PACD, and in support of NSPN’s core mission of catalyzing the engagement of early career professionals in policy making by fostering an inclusive community, the Lifting Underrepresented Voices (LUV) grant aims to help cultivate a more inclusive and representative Sci-PACD workforce ready to tackle the local, state, national, and international challenges of today and the future.

This grant program is intended for organizations outside of NSPN to host an event, project, or other activities (collectively referred to as a project) that focus on uplifting the voices of minority, marginalized, and underrepresented people in Sci-PACD. We encourage applications that cultivate data-driven policy solutions, focus on positive outcomes for students and early career professionals, and foster collaborations between minority-serving organizations and other STEM or Sci-PACD organizations. We especially encourage applications from minority-serving organizations and community groups.

Awards up to $3,250 will be awarded for applications that act to address public or international policy issues directly; up to $2,250 will be awarded for all other applications.

Submissions will be accepted between January 23, 2023 and March 15, 2023. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on March 15, 2023.