Turns out that among the winners of the 2015 White House Science Fair was STEM education itself. This year’s event focused on diversity and included students from under-represented backgrounds who excel in STEM and inspire future generations. As part of the Fair, President Obama made the announcement that over $240 million in new private-sector commitments will support STEM programs across the country. These commitments are part of the President’s “Educate to Innovate” campaign, which has resulted in over $1 billion in financial support for STEM education.

What Does this Mean for STEM Programs?

The pledges announced include $150 million in philanthropic efforts to stimulate early-career scientists to stay on track, and the $90 million “Let Everyone Dream” campaign directed towards expanding STEM opportunities for underrepresented youth – such as girls and minorities.

More than 120 higher education institutions have committed to training over 20,000 engineers to tackle the challenges of the 21^st century. These programs will focus on solving a pressing “Grand Challenge” in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Topics for these programs include: reverse engineering in the brain, economical solar energy solutions, and efficient access to clean water for people without it. Each participating university will graduate at least 20 students per year.

A few known organizations and established technology companies were named in association with these new initiatives.

• 3M is committing $15 million to STEM programs for women and underserved communities.
• Microsoft is launching the “Big Dream Movement”. A campaign focused on connecting organizations, academia and resources to help young women around the world pursue a future in STEM fields.
• Best Buy is participating with FIRST Robotics, which is a robotics competition encouraging students to build and program their own robot.
• 3D Systems is working with the Youth Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), and the Association of Science-Technology Centers to create a network of libraries and museums focused on 3D digital design and fabrication.
• littleBits is launching a new campaign to expand its reach to 100 major cities by the end of 2015 – providing students, designers, engineers and educators with an accessible peer group of fellow makers in the open hardware community

These are just some of the commercial organizations that are starting to take an active role in STEM initiatives. Take look at the growing community of organizations getting involved here.

Get Involved with STEM Education in Your Classroom

With the increasing resources and financial support, STEM solutions are becoming more and more accessible every day. Discover some incredible products that will engage students in technology and cultivate skills to help foster future career opportunities.