New funding round by Meta strengthens local STEAM education
Communities hosting Meta data centres can seek support for projects that expand digital education and create sustainable benefits for schools and nonprofits.
Meta is inviting applications for its 2026 Data Centre Community Action Grants, which support schools, nonprofits and local groups in regions that host the company’s data centres.
The programme has been a core part of Meta’s community investment strategy since 2011, and the latest round expands support to seven additional areas linked to new facilities. The company views the grants as a means of strengthening long-term community vitality, rather than focusing solely on infrastructure growth.
Funding is aimed at projects that use technology for public benefit and improve opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. More than $ 74 million has been awarded to communities worldwide, with $ 24 million distributed through the grant programme alone.
Recipients can reapply each year, which enables organisations to sustain programmes and increase their impact over time.
Several regions have already demonstrated how the funding can reshape local learning opportunities. Northern Illinois University used grants to expand engineering camps for younger students and to open a STEAM studio that supports after-school programmes and workforce development.
In New Mexico, a middle school used funding to build a STEM centre with advanced tools such as drones, coding kits and 3D printing equipment. In Texas, an enrichment organisation created a digital media and STEM camp for at-risk youth, offering skills that can encourage empowerment instead of disengagement.
Meta presents the programme as part of a broader pledge to deepen education and community involvement around emerging technologies.
The company argues that long-term support for digital learning will strengthen local resilience and create opportunities for young people who want to pursue future careers in technology.
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