Derry projects receive funding for STEM-related initiatives

Earlier this year, The James Kane Foundation launched an ambitious new funding programme to support STEM-related education, career opportunities, and initiatives that help students make informed choices between employment, further study, and higher education pathways.

This marked the Foundation’s first open call for education projects since its establishment in April 2016 - and the response exceeded expectations.

Michael Wilson, Chair of The James Kane Foundation, said: “The Foundation is committed to advancing education, skills, and career opportunities. Last year, the Board agreed a new strategic approach to our future funding commitments, which has come to fruition today with the announcement of these exciting projects.

"The Board has committed to funding 21 new initiatives. Collectively, these investments will deliver meaningful impact across Northern Ireland, supporting young people as they navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing employment landscape."

Across all approved projects, The James Kane Foundation has pledged over three-quarters of a million pounds in direct interventions. These funded projects include:

GEMX – to support an additional team member dedicated to managing, developing, and delivering educational activities including interactive roadshows, STEM workshops, CPD events, and the MakeME Academy in order to promote engineering career pathways.

Lumen Christi – for their Re-igniting core Manufacturing Skills programme where pupils will learn how to mill, turn on the lathe (machine and wood lathes) cut, shape and weld metal and other basic skills in the school workshop.

South West College – were awarded funding for their Bridge to Build project. This project will empower Special Educational Needs (SEN) students to progress into construction and engineering careers by providing first-hand industry experience, mentorship, and structured support. This initiative connects SEN learners with STEM employers.

St Mary’s Grammar, Magherafelt – for their Coding with Confidence: empowering future female innovators project. Aimed at female students will build confidence through hands-on experience, and equip students with essential coding skills through coding workshops, mentorship programmes, coding competitions, career events and industry partnerships, including collaboration with the Magherafelt Rural Learning Partnership.

The James Kane Foundation will be opening another open funding call on Tuesday, September 30 2025. Details on how to apply will go live on the website on September 30. Visit www.jameskanefoundation.org.