Empowering Women in STEM: TechWomen 2025 Applications Open!

TechWomen is a flagship initiative by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE). Launched in 2011, this program empowers emerging women leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by providing access to mentorship, networks, and resources to drive their professional growth and inspire their communities.

What is TechWomen?

TechWomen is a dynamic mentorship and exchange program that connects women from Africa, Central and South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe with STEM professionals in the United States. Through this initiative, participants:

Engage in five-week mentorship programs at leading tech companies in the San Francisco Bay Area or Chicago.
Attend professional development workshops and networking events.
Participate in targeted meetings and special events in Washington, D.C. to wrap up the program.
Since its launch, TechWomen has impacted over 1,200 women from 20+ countries and will expand in 2025 to include Emerging Leaders from Albania.

A Global Mission Beyond Borders

The mentorship doesn’t stop in the U.S. TechWomen mentors and participants reconnect during delegation trips to countries in Africa, South and Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. These trips aim to:

Build sustainable mentor-fellow relationships.
Encourage girls to pursue STEM careers.
Expand professional networks for women in STEM.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Professional Experience: At least two years of full-time work in STEM fields.
Educational Qualification: Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Language Proficiency: Proficient in English (spoken and written).
Citizenship: Be citizens or permanent residents of eligible countries, including Albania, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Cameroon, and others.
Visa Eligibility: Must be eligible for a U.S. J-1 exchange visitor visa and have not applied for a U.S. immigrant visa in the past five years (except for the Diversity Immigrant Visa).
Preference: Priority is given to those who:
Reside and work in a TechWomen program country.
Exhibit emerging leadership qualities.
Have limited U.S. experience.
Are committed to sharing their learnings with their communities.

Key Dates and Application Process

Application Deadline: January 7, 2025, at 9:00 AM PST (GMT-08:00).
Applicant Notification: By April 30, 2025.
Final Decisions: By May 31, 2025.

Apply today via the TechWomen Application Portal and take the first step toward joining a global network of women leaders in STEM.

Why Apply?

TechWomen is committed to advancing women in STEM and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities. This is your opportunity to: