Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026 – Australia Funding Opportunity
Quick Overview
Country: Australia
Funding Type: Grant
Funding Range: $20,000 – $100,000
Deadline: 17 June 2026, 5:00pm AEST
Target Group: Organisations working with youth under 18
Project Deadline: Must be completed by 30 June 2028
The Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026 is an Australian government funding program designed to support hands-on STEM learning experiences for young people under 18 years old. The initiative focuses on developing creativity, innovation, and practical STEM skills through interactive, community-based projects delivered by eligible organisations.
This funding opportunity aims to expand access to STEM education, particularly for groups who are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Program Overview
The Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026 supports organisations delivering STEM-focused activities that encourage experimentation, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. The program focuses on design, engineering, programming, and innovation-based learning experiences for youth.
The grant is specifically designed to:
• Encourage practical STEM engagement through interactive activities
• Inspire young people to pursue future STEM education and careers
• Expand access to STEM learning in regional and disadvantaged communities
• Support collaboration between organisations and STEM experts
Funding Information
The grant provides funding between:
✓ $20,000 (minimum) and $100,000 (maximum)
Eligible expenditure may include:
✓ Contractor and labour costs (with limits)
✓ Venue and equipment hire
✓ STEM tools and technology equipment
✓ Robotics, electronics, and ICT materials
✓ Consumables for STEM activities
✓ Event promotion and advertising
✓ Workshops, exhibitions, and competitions
✓ Travel costs (within allowed percentage limits)
Applicants must also contribute at least 20% of total eligible project costs.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Hold an Australian Business Number (ABN)
• Be an eligible incorporated organisation or approved entity type
• Deliver projects in collaboration with at least one partner organisation
• Target students and youth under 18 years of age
• Ensure projects are STEM-focused and community-based
Ineligible applicants include individuals, sole traders, schools, government bodies, and unincorporated associations.
Project Requirements
To qualify, projects must:
• Be completed by 30 June 2028
• Focus on STEM education activities for youth under 18
• Include STEM professionals such as engineers, scientists, or innovators
• Deliver either new activities or expand existing programs
• Include hands-on learning experiences such as workshops and events
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official online portal. The process includes:
• Creating or logging into the portal account
• Completing the application form
• Submitting before the deadline
Applications are assessed based on:
• Reach and impact of the project (50 points)
• Capacity and capability to deliver (20 points)
• Value of grant funding (30 points)
Only applications scoring at least 50% in each criterion will be considered.
Deadline
The closing date for applications is:
17 June 2026 – 5:00pm AEST
Apply Here
➤ Maker Projects Community STEM Engagement Grants 2026
