TechWomen 2020 Application is Now Open!

December 5, 2019

TechWomen aims to empower, connect and support the next generation of women leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by providing them access and opportunity to advance their careers, pursue their dreams, and become role models for women and girls in their communities. TechWomen supports the United States’ global commitment toward advancing the rights and participation of women and girls around the world by enabling them to reach their full potential in the tech industry.

During the five-week program, participants engage in project-based mentorships at leading companies in the San Francisco Bay Area, participate in professional development workshops and networking events, and travel to Washington, DC. for targeted meetings and special events to conclude the program.

Eligibility:

Applicants must:

Be women with, at minimum, two years of full-time professional experience in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields. Please note that internships and other unpaid work experience do not count toward the two-year professional experience requirement.
Have, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree/four-year university degree or equivalent.
Be proficient in written and spoken English.
Be citizens and permanent residents of Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan or Zimbabwe at the time of application and while participating in the program.
Be eligible to obtain a U.S. J-1 exchange visitor visa.
Not have applied for an immigrant visa to the United States (other than the Diversity Immigrant Visa, also known as the “visa lottery”) in the past five years.
Not hold U.S. citizenship or be a U.S. legal permanent resident.

Preference will be given to applicants who:

Demonstrate themselves as emerging leaders in their chosen professional track through their work experience, volunteer experience, community activities, and education.
Are committed to return to their home countries to share what they have learned and mentor women and girls.
Have limited or no prior experience in the United States.
Have a proven record of voluntary or public service in their communities.
Have a demonstrated track record of entrepreneurialism and commitment to innovation.
Demonstrate a willingness to participate in exchange programs, welcome opportunities for mentoring and new partnership development, and exhibit confidence and maturity.

TechWomen encourages people with diverse backgrounds and skills to apply, including individuals with disabilities.

Selection Timeline:

The 2020 TechWomen application will close on 09:00AM PST (GMT-08:00), Wednesday, January 15, 2020. Semifinalists will be contacted via email in/around April 2020. Final decisions will be made no later than May 31, 2020. All applicants will be notified of the results of their application.