When asked what they want to be when they grow up, rarely do children tell you they want to take up electrical engineering, biochemical research, or particle physics. But sometimes, somehow, somewhere along the line, that’s exactly what happens. All they need is the right inspiration.
With mentorship, guidance and hands-on learning opportunities, Avnet has spent years passing on a love for science, technology, engineering and math to the next generation. Avnet believes that instilling a love for STEM in today’s youth will lead to a better, brighter, more sustainable tomorrow and we work hard to share our passion through programs across the world.
INSPIRING TOMORROW'S TECHNOLOGISTS
STEM LITTLE LIBRARIES
A Little Free Library is a small, community-run library with books located in public places such as neighborhoods and parks. STEM Little Libraries provide STEM-themed kits to Little Free Libraries in rural areas around Arizona.
STEM LITTLE LIBRARIES
STEM GRANTS
In 2024 Avnet awarded 30+ community grants focused on STEM. These financial incentives are designed to encourage children to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math.
STEM GRANTS
CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICERS PROGRAM
The Chief Science Officers Program is a part of the
SciTech Institute, a nonprofit with a vision to establish a prosperous and equitable world where STEM
is within reach of everyone.
CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICERS PROGRAM
It seeks to enhance the workforce and employability skills of youths in grades 6-12 and foster a global network of diverse STEM leaders prepared for college, careers and civic engagement.
Avnet has partnered with CSO to help expand the program globally, with positive results!
Through Avnet's support, the program has grown from 800 – 1,500 youth and expanded to 6 countries around the globe and 15 states within the U.S.
New this year - Avnet is supporting "mini grants" for CSOs. Youth will have the opportunity to apply for small grants to help fund their STEM projects.
The Chief Science Officer Program is a part of the SciTech Institute, a nonprofit with a vision to establish a prosperous and equitable world where STEM is within reach of everyone.
CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICERS PROGRAM
Avnet invests in the next generation of STEM dreamers because we believe that every child has the potential to create change. Through the programs we offer, we encourage them to learn, grow and think big--positioning them to become the next generation of engineers and scientists.
Here are a few examples of how we support tomorrow's thinkers and inventors. There is no better time than now to inspire young adults to enter STEM fields.
SHARING OUR PASSION FOR STEM
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Whether you are a beginner or already passionate about the field, here are more ways to engage, more places to be inspired, and more projects to tackle.
Avnet Cares is the employee volunteer and charitable giving probram of Avnet. The focus areas of Avnet Cares include STEM education, DEI, Environment and Communities in Crisis.
Hackster.io, an Avnet community, is the world's fastest-growing developer for learning, programming and building hardware.
"READY TO DIVE INTO STEM?"
The Little Free Library STEM Project came alive in Arizona last year. The project expanded beyond AZ into nine other states, thanks to the support of Avnet Cares and the dedication of our employee volunteers. Since March 2023, over 7,000 STEM kits have been distributed, with different monthly themes and projects – providing access to STEM learning to youth across the country.
LITTLE LIBRARY STEM PROJECT
STEM Little Libraries
Avnet Cares partnered with Hackster.io as part of the STEM Little Library Project for a design challenge
online contest inspiring individuals to add a technology component to a local little library. From a digital catalog, to reading rewards, to solar-powered doors, participants from across the globe showcased their creativity. Over 100 participants entered the contest with 4 winners being awarded STEM Library Starter Packs and e-gift cards, plus a feature in Avnet’s magazine.
Watch the video of Raunak Singh who won for the Most Over-Engineered Library.
LITTLE FREE STEM LIBRARY CHALLENGE