The iSTEM program was designed to provide a platform for students who struggle in conventional learning environments yet exhibit exceptional creative and problem-solving abilities. At the same time, Launchpad@Stevens supports student innovation by providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities.
Chegg, a leading student-first online learning platform, has contributed to advancing student innovation by donating $50,000 to Stevens Institute of Technology’s iSTEM and Launchpad@Stevens programs. This donation from the Chegg.org Impact Fund is the first-ever matching gift designed to amplify the programs’ influence beyond the university.
Empowering Student Entrepreneurship
The $50,000 donation from Chegg will be instrumental in supporting student-led startups, providing funding for materials, supplies, and essential technological resources. Through this initiative, up to ten iSTEM and Launchpad startups will receive up to $5,000 each, facilitating access to hardware, software, and raw materials necessary to bring their entrepreneurial ideas to life.
Chegg CEO Nathan Schultz emphasized the company’s dedication to modernizing education and fostering student-led innovation.
“Chegg truly understands the modern student experience, and we are proud to support institutions that are reimagining curriculum to better engage and assess students,” said Schultz. “The iSTEM program is a shining example of how innovation in education can empower students to turn bold ideas into reality. This gift reaffirms our commitment to championing forward-thinking programs that challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change.”
Fostering Inclusion in STEM Careers
In addition to providing financial support, this donation aligns with Chegg’s broader mission of expanding access to STEM careers, particularly for students from historically marginalized backgrounds. Dr. Marshall Anthony Jr., Director of Public Affairs and Policy at Chegg, highlighted the importance of this initiative in broadening participation in STEM fields.
“Real change happens at the intersection of education, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Anthony. “Stevens’ commitment to supporting students with learning differences through programs like iSTEM and Launchpad aligns with our mission to equip students with the tools and confidence to succeed.”
The investment in these programs aims to empower unconventional thinkers—students who may not have thrived in traditional academic environments but possess the creative drive to tackle real-world challenges.
Stevens and Chegg are paving the way for more diverse participation in technology and innovation by providing financial support, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge resources.
Building on a Legacy of Innovation
This contribution builds upon an already impressive history of support for Stevens’ iSTEM program. A transformative $10 million donation from distinguished engineer and Stevens Emeritus Trustee Emilio A. Fernandez was designed to scale the university’s groundbreaking iSTEM initiative. With anticipated matching gifts totaling $7.5 million, the total external investment in the program is expected to reach $17.5 million, strengthening its ability to nurture innovative talent.
Stevens Institute of Technology President Nariman Farvardin underscored the program’s impact since its inception.
“This transformative gift will allow us to identify and nurture exceptional students who think differently. Since launching iSTEM in 2019, we’ve seen remarkable success – from a 95% retention rate to students raising over $5 million in capital,” said Farvardin. “With Chegg’s generous matching gift, we can empower even more unconventional innovators—students who may not fit the traditional academic mold but have the creative genius to solve tomorrow’s toughest challenges.”
Chegg: A Legacy of Supporting Students
Chegg was founded in 2005 by Aayush Phumbhra, Osman Rashid, and Josh Carlson with the mission of making higher education more affordable and accessible for students. What began as a textbook rental service has since evolved into a comprehensive student-first learning platform that offers academic support, career resources, and financial assistance.
With a strong focus on using technology to enhance learning, Chegg has expanded its reach to millions of students worldwide. It provides tools that support their success both in and beyond the classroom. The company remains committed to empowering students through initiatives like the Chegg.org Impact Fund, which has granted over $3 million to educational and social impact programs since its inception in 2019.
The Impact of iSTEM and Launchpad
The iSTEM program at Stevens Institute of Technology was designed to provide a platform for students who struggle in conventional learning environments yet exhibit exceptional creative and problem-solving abilities. Through a curriculum centered on hands-on learning and real-world application, students in the iSTEM program gain the opportunity to turn their ideas into viable businesses.
Mukund Iyengar, the founding director of iSTEM, shared his enthusiasm for Chegg’s support.
“We are thrilled to accept this generous gift from Chegg to further the iSTEM initiative. As the founding director of iSTEM, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible things our students are able to bring to life when we support them in chasing their dreams,” said Iyengar. “iSTEM students are unconventional geniuses. They have shown, again and again, that they can solve pressing world problems in the most entrepreneurial way with support and guidance. We are grateful to Chegg for enabling more students to build their dreams.”
The Launchpad@Stevens program supports student innovation by providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities. By coupling these programs with financial support from Chegg and other benefactors, Stevens is strengthening its role as a leader in fostering entrepreneurial talent among students who might not have had access to traditional academic pathways.
A Shared Commitment to the Future of STEM
The collaboration between Chegg and Stevens Institute of Technology exemplifies a shared vision for the future of STEM education—one that embraces innovation, inclusivity, and entrepreneurship.
By providing financial resources and strategic support, this partnership aims to unlock new opportunities for students to develop groundbreaking technologies and transform their ideas into successful ventures. They enter the New Jersey Startup Ecosystem better prepared for their entrepreneurial journey and innovation pursuits.
Chegg’s contribution represents more than just a donation; it is an investment in the next generation of changemakers, ensuring that students, regardless of their background or learning style, access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
