Donate to Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair
All Students Belong in STEM
Many students face barriers to STEM. Your support provides resources, mentorship, and opportunities for hands-on, independent research, empowering students to tackle real-world problems and showcase their work at science fairs.
Science fairs are STEM at its best—fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Together, we can keep programs free and accessible, equipping students with skills and confidence to thrive.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, MSEF creates lasting impact by inspiring the next generation through the transformative power of independent STEM research.
Ways to contribute
Donate By Mail
Please mail a check, payable to Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair, to:
Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair
955 Massachusetts Avenue, #350
Cambridge, MA 02139
Double Your Impact
Thousands of companies match their employees’ charitable contributions. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to double your impact and help us bring STEM education to more young people across our state.
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
A DAF is a charitable giving vehicle that allows you to make a tax-deductible donation today and then recommend gifts (known as grants) to charities from the fund over time. If you already have a DAF click here to donate:
Sponsorship Of Fair(s)
Do you work for an organization passionate about STEM education? By sponsoring the Fair(s) your company will enjoy valuable visibility in front of our state’s future innovators while supporting valuable STEM programming for MA youth. Learn more about Fair sponsorship here.
Qualified Charitable Distribution
If you are age 70 ½ or older and wish to make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) directly from an IRA or another retirement account to MSEF, call your IRA administrator to initiate the process. They may ask for MSEF’s address (955 Massachusetts Ave. #350, Cambridge, MA 02139) and EIN (04-2707499).
We need your help to empower the next generation
| Science fair builds crucial skills. Students learn to think critically, communicate effectively, analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information, which ultimately helps them view mistakes as opportunities to learn. In turn, these are the essential skill sets needed for academic and career success. |
Increase equitable access to STEM. Deliberate outreach brings authentic STEM learning to under-resourced communities. As a result, your donation helps bring STEM education to students of all backgrounds, fostering equity and creating opportunities for the next generation. |
| We are not state funded. As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit MSEF relies on generous donations from individuals and organizations to keep our programs and events running. As a result, these contributions help bring science fair programming to students of all backgrounds. |
No cost to participate. There are no fees or costs to participate. In addition, all programming, including the State Fairs, mentor matching, summer workshops, etc. are free of charge. |
Every dollar you give keeps these initiatives running
1.
Getting Science Fair Ready Programming
MSEF equips educators to effectively guide their students in independent research through comprehensive professional development, curriculum resources, technical support, and mentorship.
2.
State Fairs
Presenting and defending their projects at a science fair allows students to hone their communications skills, gain recognition, and build confidence and self-efficacy – all of which encourage them to continue pursuing STEM fields and develop a lifelong passion for learning.
3.
Summer Learning
High school students engage in STEM workshops, tours, and events. Teachers gain practical skills through sessions covering project management, idea generation, and program sustainability.
4.
Student Symposium
A day of learning, connection, and collaboration open to all science fair students. This non-competitive event allows students to engage with mentors, connect with peers, and explore pathways that align with their passions.
5.
Mentor Opportunities
Mentorship is a key factor in increasing student retention in STEM, especially for BIPOC students who remain underrepresented in the field. Our goal is to provide every student with a mentor; as we work toward this goal, we prioritize BIPOC students.
6.
Project materials for in-need classrooms
MSEF is committed to ensuring all students have access to quality STEM education, regardless of resources available. By supporting in-need classrooms, we provide essential project materials that allow students to engage fully in the science fair experience.
About your donation to MSEF
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What is Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair?
Advancing science and engineering literacy since 1949, Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair (MSEF) was founded by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, MIT professors, and a group of pioneering K-12 science educators. Today, MSEF is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on generous donations from individuals and organizations. These contributions help us bring STEM education to students of all backgrounds, creating equity and opportunity for the next generation.
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How does MSEF work with teachers?
Teachers are central to our mission, driving access, equity, and student success in STEM learning, particularly for students from underrepresented communities. We collaborate with over 250 teachers across Massachusetts. We empower these educators to be effective guides on the students’ STEM journey by providing professional development, curriculum resources, and technical support, ensuring they have the tools needed to foster a thriving environment of inquiry and innovation in their classrooms and after school settings.
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Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes! MSEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions to MSEF are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Tax ID number 04-2707499
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If my child participated in the science fair, should I donate?
Yes, please consider a donation! Your child benefited from the science fair program, whether the state fair, a mentor program, or the tools we developed to support teachers. If you are able to “pay it forward,” your support will help us expand these opportunities to more students.
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Does MSEF participate in the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF)?
Yes! Each year, we bring approximately 15 outstanding projects from across Massachusetts to compete on the international stage at ISEF. These students proudly represent our state as they compete against peers from over 70 countries! MSEF covers all costs—airfare, accommodation, and food—to ensure that financial limitations are never a barrier to entry.
What our students say
“The most valuable aspect of pursuing a science fair project was learning about the scientific method and process for research to get a head start in my future endeavors. I learned a lot along the way and met a lot of valuable people. I would like to have a career in STEM and plan to pursue a college degree.”
– High School Student
What our educators say
“As a teacher my goal is to give the students the skills that they need to be successful in high school and beyond. Science fair helps with that – accountability, organization, time management, presentation, public speaking. The science fair process gives them 21st century skills. As they develop skills and practice skills, they build confidence. They have pride in themselves and their accomplishments.”
– Participating Teacher
