You’ve Come This Far.
We’ll Help You Go The Rest Of The Way.
Facing a financial barrier in your final semesters? Last Mile Education Fund offers fast, flexible support for students in high-demand STEM fields.
College Completion Support for Future Innovators
At Last Mile Education Fund, we know how hard you’ve worked to get here—juggling school, work, family responsibilities, and more. You’ve persisted through obstacles. You’re close to graduating. And now, when you’re this close, you shouldn’t have to drop out because of a past-due bill, a broken laptop, or an unexpected emergency.
We’re here to ensure that financial stress doesn’t stop you before the finish line.
We see you, and we’ve got your back.
"I applied to Last Mile during a time when I was balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, and the financial burden felt overwhelming. Support from Last Mile helped me stay focused on finishing my degree instead of worrying about how I would cover my last expenses. It gave me peace of mind and reminded me that I wasn’t alone and that there’s a community rooting for me. Because of that support, I’m on track to complete my degree and pursue a career in tech, where I hope to not only provide for my family but also give back to others who are working hard to reach their goals. Last Mile gave me more than financial help, it gave me encouragement to keep pushing forward."
Mohamed M.,
Augsburg University, Class of 2026
Examples of What We Fund
We understand that financial emergencies don’t always look the same.
Tuition or past-due balances
We help cover outstanding tuition balances that prevent registration or graduation
Transportation
Gas, repairs, transit passes to ensure you can get to class
Career Development
Covering costs for exam fees, professional credentials, and conferences needed to launch your career
Course materials
Books, lab fees, and access to required materials essential for academic success
Childcare or dependent care
Support for family responsibilities that could otherwise prevent completion
Laptop, Wi-Fi, or digital access
Technology tools necessary for coursework and remote learning
Living costs
Rent, utilities, food, and other essential living expenses
Health-related emergencies
Support for unexpected health events that could derail your education
Any documented barrier to graduation
If it's standing between you and your degree, let us know.
We’re here for real life. Award amounts depend on need and are non-repayable gifts, not loans.
Financial aid wasn’t designed for this. We are.
Last Mile Awards Are
Unrestricted
We don’t limit your use to tuition only. If an expense threatens your ability to stay in school and graduate, we’ll consider it — our investments are cash gifts without tax implications or scholarship displacement
Timely
We review applications quickly so you can focus on your studies -- funding in weeks not months.
Abundant
We invest in students who are already succeeding but need a boost to finish strong. Every eligible student is funded based on need and available resources.
Inclusive
We’re not here to judge—we’re here to support your success. No GPA or institution-based restrictions. We focus on resilience and commitment.
Our last-mile funding ensures students in tech and engineering stay enrolled, graduate, and launch careers.
Eligibility
Currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, or two year technical or community college in the U.S.
Majoring in a high-demand STEM fields such as Computing, Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science, AI/ML, Mathematics, or Statistics. Our funds are always growing and changing and we strive to support every eligible student based on funding availability.
Approaching degree completion (within 4 semesters for bachelor's degrees, or within 2 semesters for associates and masters degrees).
Able to provide evidence of financial need and experiencing an emergent financial obstacle.
Able to complete a W8 or W9 form and provide a Social Security Number or an ITIN.
Able to provide a valid LinkedIn profile with a photo.
Able to provide a U.S.-based email and mailing address (required for award disbursement).
Not sure if you qualify? Apply anyway — we review with care and context.
Award Levels
AWARD LEVELS FOR U.S. STUDENTS
Awards Up To $595
Rapid-response funding to help students overcome short-term obstacles to academic progress.
Emergency Fund
Awards $600-$4,500
To help juniors and seniors in an undergraduate program bridge potentially catastrophic financial hurdles.
Bridge Fund
Awards Up To $10,000
To cover tuition and expenses for the final credits to degree completion, and only available to students in the final two semesters of their undergraduate bachelor’s degree program.
Last Mile Fund
AWARD LEVELS FOR F1 VISA STUDENTS
Awards Up To $595
Rapid-response funding to help students overcome short-term obstacles to academic progress.
Emergency Fund
Awards $600-$4,500
To help juniors and seniors in an undergraduate program bridge potentially catastrophic financial hurdles.
Bridge Fund
Due to Federal rules, only qualified educational expenses paid directly to institutions or third-party vendors for devices such as laptops are able to be funded. Eligible expenses that are paid directly to institutions can include but are not limited to: tuition, health plans, parking decals, and meal plans.
Investor and Partner Funds
The funds listed below are sponsored by our generous partners and investors. Each has unique eligibility requirements and parameters. When you apply for funding in our Caravan Portal, you will be matched to all available funds for which you are eligible using the information you share during the application process.
The Last Mile Caravan Portal provides access to our single sign-on common application portal — there is no unique application link specific to a certain fund!
We encourage you to include specific areas of study and/or adjacent interests (such as cybersecurity, physics, etc.) in your application. Each applicant will be considered for all funds for which they are eligible.
Take care to answer the questions as accurately and completely as possible to ensure you are awarded the maximum funding available to you.
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Advancing the semiconductor industry by widening the talent pool and strengthening pathways for financially vulnerable students to succeed.
The semiconductor industry is growing, and with it, the opportunity to contribute to incredible advances in technology that will transform nearly every area of the economy over the coming decades.
Last Mile Education Fund and Applied Materials are collaborating to move the industry forward, accelerating access to opportunity and strengthening pathways for women engineers.
Qualified students are eligible for funding to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles. Momentum Fund recipients are given the opportunity to connect directly with Applied Materials and are encouraged to apply for full time and internship opportunities.
Eligibility
Female students residing in the United States who:
Meet Last Mile’s standard eligibility criteria listed on the Apply page.
Are enrolled in post-secondary, bachelor’s degree program within four semesters of graduation, or students pursuing a master’s degree in the following engineering majors: Aerospace, Aeronautical, Astronautical/Space Engineering, Applied Engineering, Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Hardware Engineering, Computer Software Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, Engineering Chemistry, Engineering Science, Engineering Physics/Applied Physics, Environmental Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Laser and Optical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering, Systems Engineering, Other majors within the College of Engineering are subject to review.
Application Requirements
An official or unofficial transcript showing your name, institution, and including major/minor areas of study.
A financial aid award letter showing your name, or other documentation demonstrating evidence of financial need.
A LinkedIn profile with a photo.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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Investing in degree and credential completion for Metro Detroit residents in high-demand STEM fields, paving the way toward postsecondary degrees and credentials that lead to promising careers in tech and tech-enabled industries.
The Detroit Area Talent Fund invests in degree and credential completion for Metro Detroit residents of all ages who are currently pursuing industry credentials, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in high-demand STEM fields. The fund aims to close the graduation gaps for financially vulnerable students, paving the way toward postsecondary degrees and credentials that lead to promising careers in tech and tech-enabled industries.
Qualified students can receive a Last Mile Education Fund emergency fund limited to one $595 award per student per calendar year, to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles.
Eligibility
Students residing in the United States who:
Meet Last Mile’s standard eligibility criteria listed on the Apply page.
Live in one of the following counties in the Detroit Metro region: Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, St. Clair, Washtenaw, Wayne.
Are currently pursuing an industry credential or undergraduate degree at an accredited two- or four-year higher education institution or private training provider in the U.S.
Are enrolled in academic programs that include majors rooted in computer and information science (including cybersecurity-related programs), engineering and engineering technology, manufacturing technology, and skilled-trades. Pre-medical or medical-related programs are not eligible. See the full list of eligible majors here.
Are on track to graduate with a bachelor's degree in computing by December 31, 2026.
Application Requirements
Proof of verified Detroit Metro address.
An official or unofficial transcript showing your name, institution, and including major/minor areas of study.
A financial aid award letter showing your name, or other documentation demonstrating evidence of financial need.
A LinkedIn profile with a photo. If you need additional support on this requirement, please contact detroitreconnect@detroitchamber.com.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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Supporting the manufacturing talent pipeline in and around Dow communities.
The Dow Last Mile Fund for Manufacturing & Skilled Trades aims to increase program completion among students pursuing careers in manufacturing and skilled trades programs at institutions in communities near Dow sites.
The Fund aims to create a robust, readily-available technical talent pipeline and help increase students' career earnings and social mobility.
Qualified students are eligible for all of Last Mile’s funding levels: Emergency Fund, Bridge Fund, and Last Mile Fund to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles
Eligibility
Students residing in the United States who meet Last Mile’s standard eligibility criteria listed on the Apply page.
Students In pursuit of a career in manufacturing and skilled trades.
Students majoring in one of the following fields: AAS Electrical Concentration, AAS Mechanical Concentration, Analyzer Technology, Applied Process Technology, Chemical Laboratory Technology, Chemical Process Technology, Commercial Electrical Technology, Electrical Technology, Electromechanical Technology, Electronic Instrumentation, Engineering Technology, Environmental Technology, Instrument & Electrical Technician, Industrial Technology, Instrument & Electrical, Instrumentation Technology, Laboratory Technician, Millwright or Pipefitter, Millwright/Machine Repair, Occupational Safety and Health, Pipe Welding, Process Technology, Welding or Structural Welding (In some cases, students pursuing Biology, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering might be accepted as those majors provide immediate employability for Laboratory Technicians).
Students in manufacturing and skilled trades at institutions in the following communities: California (Hayward), Illinois (Elk Grove, Kankakee, Ringwood), Indiana (Kendallville), Kentucky (Carrollton, Elizabethtown, Louisville), Louisiana (St. Charles, St. James and St. John’s parishes, Plaquemine), Michigan (Midland, Auburn, Bay, Saginaw), Pennsylvania (Bristol, Croydon), Tennessee (Knoxville), Texas (Alvin, Angleton, Deer Park, La Porte, Lake Jackson, Houston, Orange, Port Arthur, Seadrift, Texas City), West Virginia (Charleston, South Charleston, Institute, Nitro.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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Funding and subsidies to support community college degree and industry certification attainment among community college students in cybersecurity and related fields.
The US has a cybersecurity workforce shortage of nearly 700,000 trained professionals, yet only 3% of US students attain a credential in computer and information sciences and far fewer specialize in cybersecurity. The Last Mile Education Fund and Microsoft are working together to address the talent shortages in the cybersecurity workforce by investing in students like you.
The Microsoft Cybersecurity Scholarship Program supports community college degree and industry certificate completion through financial assistance (up to $500) and subsidies for cybersecurity certification exam costs (up to $375). Students also receive access to LinkedIn Premium, GitHub Global Campus and Global Mentors Initiative. Financial assistance is intended to cover short-term basic needs, such as food, rent, health-related, transportation/car issues, and/or a laptop/device.
This opportunity is open to all academic classifications for students enrolled in a U.S. community college who are pursuing a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or cyber-adjacent degrees such as information technology, computer science, data systems, etc.
We accept dual enrollment for high school students also attending community college, however, all applicants must be at least 18 years of age to qualify for any funding from Last Mile Education Fund.
Eligibility
Students residing in the United States who:
Be currently enrolled in a United States community college, or
Be pursuing a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or certification. Students enrolled in bootcamp programs also qualify.
Enrolled in a cybersecurity or other technology-related program
Be at least 18 years old at the time of applying
Application Requirements
If enrolled in a 2-year program, a current transcript showing your full name, the current academic term, the name of your post-secondary institution, your major/minor areas of study or industry certification program. Unofficial transcripts are accepted.
If enrolled in a community college based bootcamp or certification program: proof of enrollment agreement or document that includes your name, recent date of enrollment, and program of study.
A LinkedIn profile with a profile picture
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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Aiming to close the graduation gap for financially vulnerable, high-potential NYC math, physics, and neuroscience students, paving the way toward undergraduate degrees and graduate school in the sciences.
The NYC STEM Talent Fund invests in striving undergraduate STEM students located within the five boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island), focusing on those pursuing pathways in math, physics and neuroscience. The fund aims to close the graduation gap for financially vulnerable, high-potential STEM students, paving the way toward undergraduate degrees and graduate school in the sciences.
Qualified students are eligible for all three of Last Mile’s funding levels: Emergency Fund, Bridge Fund, and larger Last Mile Fund, all to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles
Eligibility
Award Information & Application Tips
Students residing in the United States who:
meet Last Mile’s standard eligibility criteria listed on the Apply page.
Are attending an eligible four-year institution, located within the five boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island).
Junior and Senior Math, Physics, and Neuroscience majors and minors.
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Investing in high-potential transfer students with financial need, paving the way toward undergraduate computing-related degrees.
Students residing in the United States who:
Meet Last Mile’s standard eligibility criteria listed on the Apply page.
Are enrolled in an accredited US post-secondary institution. Students may apply for funds either before or after they transfer.
Are accepted into a bachelor's degree program for computing.
Are on track to graduate with a bachelor's degree in computing by December 31, 2026.
Emergency Fund Up to $595 is available during the transfer process for community college students who have been accepted into a computing bachelor's degree program.
Bridge Fund up to $4,500 is available after the transfer process is complete and the student is enrolled in the computing bachelor's degree program.
Application Requirements
An official or unofficial transcript showing your name, institution, and including major/minor areas of study.
A letter of transfer acceptance, a letter of enrollment, or other evidence of having transferred from a community college to a bachelor's degree program in computing.
A financial aid award letter showing your name, or other documentation demonstrating evidence of financial need.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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The Future of Tech Fund aims to increase program completion among RTC members pursuing careers in tech.
Qualified students are eligible for all of Last Mile’s funding levels: Emergency Fund, Bridge Fund, and Last Mile Fund to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles.
How To Apply
Application Period: No Deadlines. Always Open.
Apply anytime you're facing a financial barrier that puts your graduation at risk.
We review applications on a rolling basis and respond quickly.
Voices From The Finish Line
For most of my college journey, I was stuck in a cycle—working multiple jobs just to keep up with tuition, constantly stressed about whether I could even afford to finish. Then I found Last Mile. My initial reaction was that this has to be a unreal. Free funding to help me graduate? It felt too good to be true. But taking that leap changed everything. Last Mile lifted the weight off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my education instead of just surviving. Looking back, I wish I had known about it sooner—but instead of dwelling on that, I now use my experience to spread the word. Through NSBE and ColorStack, I want every student facing the same struggles to know that help is out there. Last Mile is here for students, and it’s life-changing.
Beteab T.
St. Cloud University, Class of 2025
Last Mile Education Fund significantly improved my motivation and persistence in attaining my bachelor's degree by providing financial relief, positive mental wellness, and encouragement.
Because of Last Mile, I am able to fulfill my academic achievements and personal goals. I've recently heard back from the University of New Mexico and I've been accepted into the Department of Computer Engineering program! I will be attending UNM to pursue a Master of Science in Computer Engineering with a specialization in the Internet of Things. Last Mile gave me the motivation and courage to complete my undergraduate degree which is an opportunity that I'm forever grateful for.
Tamara F.
Northern New Mexico College, Class of 2024
I was an undergraduate student facing significant financial and emotional hardships due to the loss of my father to cancer, as well as the passing of family members and others within our Navajo Nation community to COVID-19. This support not only enabled me to complete my undergraduate degree but also motivated me to pursue graduate studies and a career in technology.
Felicie T.,
Navajo Technical University, Class of 2023
I previously had support from my parents but after they divorced every expense was left up to me. I was working part time as a scrum master intern but I did not have enough funds to cover my bills and college expenses. I remember receiving the email that I had received funding. At the time where I felt alone, I immediately felt supported and encouraged to finish my degree.
Jana J.
University of Houston, Class of 2020
"Free, no strings attached financial support for college students?" I thought, "certainly too good to be true!" I left it at that for a while, as I had never imagined an organization like Last Mile could ever exist. However, during the beginning of my junior year, I found myself facing my own financial challenge, where a broken laptop posed an obstacle for my continuing education. Without a laptop, I wouldn't be able to apply and interview for summer internships, which are one of the most critical ways students can be set up for early-career success. Desperate, I turned to Last Mile, who stepped in to cover the costs of my laptop, ensuring I could continue to reach and fight for opportunities that would have otherwise been closed to me.
In December, I graduated from both my Bachelor's and Master's in Computer Science at Stanford, focusing on the study of Artificial Intelligence, and started my first full time job at Uber as a Software Engineer! I can't wait to see all the accomplishments from Last Mile students like me in the future, and I look forward to giving back to the Last Mile community.
Flora H.,
Stanford University, Class of 2024
The funding I received from Last Mile gave me the freedom to focus on my studies, research, and community-led grant projects. Without Last Mile’s support, there’s no way I would have been able to accomplish so much. I make sure to tell everyone I can about Last Mile, encouraging them to apply. The challenges in my field are tough enough, and I explain how Last Mile can ease the pressure of both school and personal life. With their support, students can focus more on their education and make the most of their academic journey.
Stephanie M.,
University of Houston-Downtown, Class of 2026
As a student away from home, the pandemic almost left my sister and I homeless and without support. Last Mile aid helped my sister and I afford basic living expenses during the pandemic. Because I could check off our basic needs, I had the mental space to focus on my studies. I was able to end the semesters with a 4.0 GPA which contributed to graduating Summa Cum Laude and with Distinction. Last Mile is committed to doing that and supporting our dreams and aspirations.
Christabel A.,
Philander Smith University, Class of 2022
This support came at a crucial juncture in my educational journey. Being solely responsible for financing my college education, the Last Mile funding lifted a significant financial burden and provided me with invaluable resources.
Justin V.,
Central Connecticut State University, Class of 2022
I found Last Mile during my last semester at community college. When I applied, I was working two jobs to make university a reality. I felt a lot of uncertainty and worry about affording this next step in my education. Getting support allowed me to feel more confident about my decision to attend university. It enabled me to make decisions based on purpose rather than fear.
Rachel M.
University of Maryland, Class of 2022
Due to health issues, I quit my job that helped pay for school. My family helped briefly, but after my dad's stroke and unexpected medical expenses, they couldn’t support my final year. I was unsure how I’d afford tuition and rent for the next 5 months. At a tech career fair, I ran into Last Mile. I had just quit my job to focus on my health and stay in school, giving up my scholarship. Without Last Mile, I would have had to take a semester off to save and then re-enroll. Today Rebekah is finishing her degree and graduating in May 2025.
Rebekah W.
University of Maryland, Class of 2025
Questions?
We know applying for funding can be stressful. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or have questions, visit our FAQ page. If you are still unsure, please apply.
Our Commitment to You
You’ve already proven your talent, grit, and determination. Our role is simply to make sure that unexpected costs don’t stop you now. We see you. We believe in your talent and potential. And we’re here to help you cross the finish line.