NEWARK, N.J. and MORRISTOWN, N.J. – Panasonic announced the Panasonic Foundation is teaming up with the Community Foundation of New Jersey (CFNJ) to launch the Panasonic Challenge Grant, presenting an opportunity to the community of Newark, N.J. to close the gap between future tech jobs and education in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).
The Panasonic Challenge Grant will provide funding to four (4) select nonprofit partners at a funding level of $25,000 each to support advanced STEAM education programs with the goal of improving education and workforce outcomes for Newark students.
“At Panasonic, we know that robust STEAM education is the key to better career opportunities and, ultimately, more personal growth, innovation, and contributions to the technology sector,” said Alejandra Ceja, Vice President of Social Impact and Inclusion at Panasonic. “Closing the access gap, particularly in communities where STEAM education is not as comprehensive, is mission critical. We are excited for what is ahead in this space.”
The Panasonic Challenge Grant will target four main areas: Engineering, Math, and Arts programming, including teacher professional development and training; Social and Emotional Learning; historically underserved populations; and Title I schools.
“It is our privilege to steward the Panasonic Challenge Grant, given the need in our communities and the interest among philanthropic-minded New Jerseyans to drive meaningful change,” said Aaron Turner, Chief Philanthropic Officer at CFNJ. “New Jersey is indeed the Innovation State, and this philanthropic program meets that charge.”
The application will open to nonprofits on October 2, 2023, with an application deadline of November 3, 2023. An announcement of awardees is expected no later than January of 2024.
For additional information, please contact Nalune Francois at the Community Foundation of New Jersey at (973) 267-5533 or nfrancois@cfnj.org.
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