Program
Building the Next Generation of Black Women in STEM
Our flagship initiative is a 12-week STEM empowerment program that combines technical learning, mentorship, and real-world experience for Black high school girls in Chicago, Illinois. Each cohort is designed to foster skill development, leadership, and a sense of belonging in the STEM ecosystem. Below are the core components of the program:
STEM Empowerment Program
Girls Set Go is a 12-week STEM empowerment program designed for Black high school girls in Chicago, Illinois. Our cohort model combines technical skill-building, mentorship, and real-world industry exposure to prepare participants for long-term success in STEM education and careers.
Through hands-on, project-based learning delivered in partnership with experienced educators and organizations, participants gain foundational training in:
- Web design
- Introduction to Python
- Robotics & AI
- UX/UI design
Students complete a capstone project and present their work at Demo Day, demonstrating real technical growth.
Mentorship & Community
Each participant is matched with a woman working in STEM who provides structured guidance throughout the program. Mentorship includes:
- Career pathway exploration
- Academic planning support
- Goal setting and accountability
- Professional exposure
The cohort model fosters belonging, peer connection, and leadership development in a supportive environment.
Internship & Career Exposure
Participants complete a 3–4 week mini-internship or project externship with local tech companies or social impact organizations. Additional career exposure includes:
- Career day panels
- Company site visits
- Job shadowing
- Resume and portfolio development workshops
Students leave the program with practical experience and a stronger understanding of STEM career pathways.
Outreach & Access Support
Access to opportunity should not depend on access to resources.
Through corporate and community sponsorships, Girls Set Go provides essential tools to students who need them, including:
- Laptops and technology support
- Backpacks and school supplies
- Transportation assistance
- Program participation stipends (when available)
Our outreach efforts prioritize students from under-resourced communities to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent participation or progress in STEM learning.
Budget Summary (Estimated for 20 Participants)
|
Category
|
Cost (USD)
|
|---|---|
|
Educator/Facilitator Stipends |
$6,000 |
|
Learning Materials & Tech Access |
$3,000 |
|
Student Stipends (Internships) |
$4,000 |
|
Transportation/Meal Support |
$2,000 |
|
Program Coordination/Admin |
$3,500 |
|
Showcase & Graduation Event |
$1,500 |
|
Total |
$20,000 |
Program Timeline (Cohort One)
Theory of Change
We believe that by providing Black high school girls with early access to hands-on STEM education, dedicated mentorship, comprehensive career exposure, and a robust peer network, Girls Set Go can effectively dismantle the systemic barriers hindering their full participation and leadership in STEM fields. These barriers include the digital divide, lack of representation, limited access to industry-relevant skills, and insufficient professional guidance. Through our intensive 2-week bootcamp, sustained mentorship programs, and structured learning experiences, we anticipate participants will not only acquire essential technical and leadership skills but also cultivate the confidence and social capital vital for pursuing and persisting in STEM careers. Ultimately, these interventions will lead to increased representation of Black women in STEM, fostering economic mobility and nurturing a generation of empowered leaders who serve as influential role models and changemakers in their communities.
Partnership Opportunities
Girls Set Go is a movement dedicated to cultivating the next wave of Black women leaders in STEM. By investing in high school girls with mentorship, skill development, and early tech career exposure, we’re sparking transformative change for individuals and communities. We invite your partnership and support as we launch our inaugural cohort, building a future where Black girls are not just participants in STEM, but its true pioneers.
We invite educators, tech organizations, and community stakeholders to partner with Girls Set Go in delivering high-quality programming. We are especially seeking:
- STEM educators to co-design and teach skill modules
- Companies willing to host interns or provide project challenges
- Funders and sponsors who share our commitment to equity and innovation