TechWomen is an initiative of 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, TechWomen seeks to empower, connect, and support emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by providing them with the resources, opportunities, and mentorship needed to advance their careers, pursue their dreams, and become role models for women and girls in their communities.
How TechWomen Supports Women in STEM
Through a dynamic mentorship and exchange program, TechWomen brings emerging female leaders from Africa, Central and South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe together with professional counterparts in the United States. Participants gain access to valuable networks, resources, and knowledge that help them reach their full potential in the tech industry.
Over the course of a five-week program, TechWomen participants engage in project-based mentorships at leading tech companies in the San Francisco Bay Area or Chicago, attend professional development workshops and networking events, and travel to Washington, D.C. for targeted meetings and special events to conclude the program.
Since its inception, more than 1,200 women from 20+ countries have participated in TechWomen, and in 2025, the program will welcome its first cohort of Emerging Leaders from Albania.
Mentoring Beyond Borders
The TechWomen experience doesn’t end in the U.S. After the program, Emerging Leaders and mentors have the opportunity to reconnect through delegation trips to countries in Africa, South and Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. These trips focus on expanding women’s networks in STEM, encouraging girls to pursue STEM careers, and ensuring the sustainability of mentor-fellow relationships.
TechWomen 2025 Application Now Open
The 2025 TechWomen application is now open! The deadline for applications is January 7, 2025, at 9:00 AM PST (GMT-08:00). Applicants will be notified of their status by April 30, 2025, and final decisions will be made by May 31, 2025.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for TechWomen, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have at least two years of full-time professional experience in STEM fields.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
- Be proficient in English (written and spoken).
- Be citizens or permanent residents of select countries, including Albania, Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, and many others.
- Be eligible to obtain a U.S. J-1 exchange visitor visa.
- Have not applied for an immigrant visa to the U.S. in the past five years (except for the Diversity Immigrant Visa).
- Preference will be given to applicants who are living and working in a TechWomen program country, demonstrate emerging leadership qualities, have limited experience in the U.S., and are committed to sharing what they learn with their communities.
A Unique Opportunity for Women in STEM
TechWomen encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, to apply. This is a unique opportunity to gain leadership experience, expand your professional network, and contribute to the global mission of advancing women and girls in STEM.
Apply Today!
Visit TechWomen Application Portal to submit your application and take the first step toward joining a global community of women leaders in STEM.
