Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Program for Women in STEM: 2026 Application

The Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Program, administered by the Henry Luce Foundation, continues its mission of advancing women’s participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Established in 1989 through the bequest of Ambassador Clare Boothe Luce, the program has become one of the most significant sources of private support for women in STEM higher education. As the program celebrates over three decades of impact, the 2026 application cycle offers institutions the opportunity to secure funding that directly supports women’s advancement in these critical disciplines.

How to Apply

The application process for the Clare Boothe Luce Program is designed to ensure that institutions demonstrate both commitment and capacity to foster inclusive excellence in STEM. Interested institutions must begin by submitting an initial application through the Foundation’s online portal. This preliminary submission is reviewed by the CBL Selection Committee. Only institutions invited by the Committee may proceed to submit a full proposal. This two-step process ensures that proposals are carefully vetted and aligned with the program’s goals.

Program Requirements and Guidelines

Grants are awarded exclusively to four-year degree-granting institutions. Applications must be submitted by individuals with the authority to act on behalf of their institution; direct applications from individuals are not accepted. Institutions may request up to $750,000 in funding, to be used over a five-year period.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a clear understanding of the barriers faced by women in their specific institutional context. This requires conducting or planning research such as climate surveys, sexual harassment surveys, diversity studies, or equivalent efforts. Reliance solely on national data is insufficient; institutions must provide evidence of localized expertise. Importantly, CBL funding can be incorporated into these proposed research plans.

Catholic institutions with strong science programs are particularly encouraged to apply. In accordance with Ambassador Luce’s bequest, at least 50% of program awards are reserved for Roman Catholic colleges or universities. Additionally, minority-serving institutions and those with high percentages of Pell Grant-eligible students are encouraged to apply, especially when their mission and strategic plans align with the goals of the CBL Program.

Program Restrictions

The program has specific restrictions to maintain focus and integrity. Applications related to medical, behavioral, and social science fields are not accepted. Funds may not be used for international study or travel abroad programs. Furthermore, grantees must wait three years after submitting their final narrative and budget report before applying for another grant. The program also does not allow for indirect costs.

2026 Application Calendar

Institutions interested in applying should carefully note the following deadlines:

• March 2, 2026 – Deadline for all applications
• Mid to Late May 2026 – Selection Committee notifies institutions of results
• September 1, 2026 – Deadline for full proposals (for invited institutions)
• Mid to Late October 2026 – Foundation announces grant winners
• Late December 2026 – First grant payment issued

Upcoming Webinars

To support institutions in preparing their applications, the Clare Boothe Luce Program will host a series of webinars in early January 2026. These sessions are designed exclusively for higher education institutions applying to the program. Interested participants can sign up through the provided SurveyMonkey link, and webinar access details will be shared closer to the event date.

The Clare Boothe Luce Program remains a cornerstone initiative for promoting gender equity in STEM. By offering substantial institutional grants, encouraging research into barriers faced by women, and prioritizing Catholic and minority-serving institutions, the program ensures that its resources are directed toward impactful change. The 2026 application cycle represents not only an opportunity for funding but also a chance for institutions to demonstrate their commitment to building inclusive, equitable, and innovative STEM environments. Learn more and apply.