Accomplished link
Iridescent has engaged 21,000 children and parents in open-ended engineering design challenges. Evaluations show that the program boosts children's interest in challenging STEM activities, prompts parents to do more hands-on science with their children, and helps more parents believe their children could have a career in science or engineering.
Iridescent needs support to realize its bold vision to develop one of the world's largest collections of excellent, unique, open-ended,and cutting-edge engineering design challenges. What's more, it aims to bring this world-class curriculum to the neediest communities across the globe. In addition, Iridescent gives STEM professionals unparalleled opportunities to volunteer as teachers, mentors, or even consultants in fields such as software development or analytics.
Funders and PartnersOffice of Naval Research
National Science Foundation
Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation
Leonetti/Oâ€(TM)Connell Family Foundation
IEEE
Google RISE
University of Southern California
New York Community Trust/Hive
NISE Net
The programs in this database clear a high bar. STEMworks reviewed each program against the Design Principles for Effective STEM Philanthropy.
Identify and target a compelling and well-defined need.
Use rigorous evaluation to continuously measure and inform progress towards the compelling need identified.
Ensure work is sustainable.
Demonstrate replicability and scalability.
Create high impact partnerships
Ensure organizational capacity to achieve goals.
Offer challenging and relevant STEM content for the target audience
Incorporate and encourage STEM practices.
Inspire interest and engagement in STEM.
Identify and address the needs of under-represented groups.