Cambridge Opens Applications for Youth Math Enrichment Funding

The initiative is intended to make math more engaging and accessible while helping young people develop problem-solving skills.

By Benjamin Pierce, Patch Staff

Aug 11, 2026 9:21 AM EDT

CAMBRIDGE, MA — The city has announced a new funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations and out-of-school-time programs providing math enrichment to Cambridge children and youth, with $70,000 available annually for programs operating from Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 through Friday, June 30, 2028. The initiative is intended to make math more engaging and accessible while helping young people develop confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.

The funding opportunity is organized by the Cambridge STEAM Initiative in partnership with the Cambridge Public Schools Math Department and is open to programs serving Cambridge residents from early childhood through Grade 12. Existing out-of-school-time programs may also apply to add or expand math enrichment during the school year or summer.

Individual programs may receive up to $25,000, with grants awarded for as many as two years based on their ability to meet first-year goals. Priority will be given to programs serving young people who have historically been excluded from STEAM opportunities. Applicants are also expected to incorporate youth perspectives, encourage a positive attitude toward math, and help participants see themselves as capable math learners.

The initiative follows two years of collaboration with out-of-school-time partners through the city's Math is a Civil Right collective action group. The group has focused on listening to young people affected by inequities in K-12 math education and helping educators introduce engaging math activities outside the classroom.

Applications are due Friday, Sept. 4, at 5 p.m., with funding decisions scheduled to be announced Wednesday, Sept. 30. Organizations can review the requirements and submit a proposal online now.