About IGNITE Worldwide
IGNITE Worldwide is the answer to achieving gender equity in STEM.
Increasing diversity and closing the gender gap in STEM are necessary for innovation. The world is missing out on the talent of women, especially women of color, who are not fairly represented in STEM fields. IGNITE Worldwide is committed to changing diversity in STEM through our award-winning IGNITE Program, and we need your support to expand our impact.
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Women, especially women of color, remain underrepresented in STEM fields.
Advancing gender and racial equity in STEM not only spurs innovation but also helps close the skills gap, driving economic growth, enhancing research, and creating more pioneering products and services, all while contributing to broader social progress.
Sources: National Girls Collaborative Project, 2024; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2023; NSF 2017
Vision
IGNITE Worldwide envisions a world where all girls and gender-diverse youth have access to the resources and representation they need to thrive. Through the IGNITE Program, girls and gender-diverse youth are provided equitable access to STEM education during their school day, breaking down the barriers to opportunity for them to gain the social and cultural capital to secure and excel in a STEM career.
Mission
IGNITE Worldwide is the answer to achieving gender equity in STEM. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes STEM education and career advancement for girls and gender-diverse youth from historically marginalized communities. Through hands-on events that connect students with role models who live and work in their communities, students recognize new possibilities for their futures.
The IGNITE Program provides comprehensive strategies to close the gender gap in STEM
Introducing girls and gender-diverse students to STEM topics early on helps dispel stereotypes and provides them with role models to identify with. The IGNITE Program successfully provides K-postsecondary students with opportunities to explore STEM subjects in a fun and engaging way.
Having representative role models in STEM is crucial to inspiring and encouraging girls and gender-diverse students to pursue STEM careers. At every IGNITE Program event, students are able to interact with women and gender-diverse STEM professionals that they identify with.
Breaking down obstacles and providing accessible programming is crucial in closing the gender gap in STEM. The IGNITE Program is cost-free for students and public schools, removing all economic barriers to STEM education. Additionally, IGNITE Program Events happen during the school day, ensuring there are no obstacles to participation.
Creating a supportive environment helps women and gender-diverse professionals remain in STEM careers. IGNITE Worldwide introduces girls and gender-diverse students to a community that they can rely on for ongoing support in their career and personal journeys.
Companies and institutions that foster a culture of inclusivity will see more advancement. By partnering with IGNITE Worldwide, companies can inspire IGNITE Students to pursue STEM and future positions at companies they have felt encouraged by through the IGNITE Program.
Initiatives that include mentorship and networking can help women and gender-diverse professionals develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in STEM fields. IGNITE Worldwide provides mentorship opportunities for IGNITE Students and each IGNITE Program Event includes a panel discussion where students are encouraged to connect with STEM professionals. Additionally, IGNITE Volunteers are provided with many opportunities to network and connect with their fellow peers involved or interested in the IGNITE mission.
Sources: MIT, QS, Women in STEM
Seattle Times Article, IGNITE Group Introduces Teenage Girls to High-Tech
Women in Tech Regatta Panel, "Take Your Seat at the Table: Building Credibility", moderated by IGNITE Worldwide's Founder
World Affairs Council "Community Spotlight Series" feature on IGNITE Worldwide's international chapters
GeekWire Awards 2021 Winner Cathi Rodgveller, STEM Educator of the Year
Impact Reports
