The Burroughs Wellcome Fund aims to serve and strengthen society by fostering a diverse group of leaders in biomedical sciences, with the goal of improving human health through education and science innovation in areas of significant need. They offer financial support predominantly through competitive, peer-reviewed award programs, primarily funding individual researchers via their home institutions. Additionally, BWF grants aid to non-profits that work towards creating a better science environment, embodying the belief that diversity in the scientific workforce is crucial for research innovation and public service.
The Student STEM Enrichment Program (SSEP) provides financial support to enable primary and secondary students in North Carolina to engage in creative, hands-on STEM activities. Offering up to $60,000 per year for three years, the grant seeks to support career-oriented and practical programs that encourage science enrichment activities for K-12 students. These programs are particularly aimed at students who have demonstrated exceptional skills and interest in STEM fields, as well as those with high potential, including underserved and underrepresented groups. The overarching goal is to foster an environment where after school programs can help close opportunity gaps by providing structured, curriculum-aligned, and inquiry-based STEM exploration opportunities. The SSEP has three primary objectives: improve students' competence in science and mathematics, nurture enthusiasm for these subjects, and inspire students to pursue careers in research or science-related areas, aligning activities with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.
BWF strongly advocates for collaborations, including those between singular educational institutions or entire educational systems and scientific collectives, academic institutions, local educational organizations, or community collectives. Furthermore, BWF is particularly keen on supporting proposals for STEM initiatives occurring within the rural counties of North Carolina.