A new £15,000 fund has been launched to help inspire more young people across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin into careers in construction, engineering and STEM.

Dodd Group, a long-established Building services and Property Maintenance company with strong roots in the region, has partnered with Shropshire Community Foundation to launch The Dodd Group Fund. 

From Monday 30th March 2026, organisations can apply for grants of up to £2,000 with applications closing on Monday ,11th May 2026.  

The new funding programme is focused on grant applicants looking to engage young people, particularly young women and under-represented groups, through hands-on workshops, digital skills sessions, mentoring opportunities and meaningful industry insight. The programme will prioritise accessibility, ensuring participants gain exposure to STEM pathways while developing confidence, problem-solving skills and awareness of local employment opportunities. 

By combining practical learning with real-world engagement, Dodd Group aims to build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills and increase awareness of local employment opportunities. Expected activities include interactive engineering challenges, digital literacy workshops, workplace engagement and careers talks.

The initiative follows a month that saw national focus on skills and representation through Women in Construction Week (1st–7th March) and British Science Week (6th–15th March), reinforcing the need to build stronger, more inclusive pathways into the sector. Both movements showcase the importance of science, technology and innovation in shaping future careers making this a timely launch for a fund focused on long-term skills development.

Luke Hunter, Pre-Construction Director for Dodd Group commented:
“Firmly rooted in Shropshire since its formation in 1947, Dodd Group is a proud family-owned business, which operates throughout the UK; I am excited to be teaming up with SCF (having lived in Shropshire myself for the last 23-years). Together, through this grant, we are aiming to help local groups bring grassroots STEM projects to life, inspiring young people and making a lasting difference in the community, with a particular focus on increasing female representation in the sector.”

Shropshire Community Foundation works with businesses, donors and community organisations to strengthen opportunity across the county. Through partnerships such as The Dodd Group Fund, it continues to support grassroots initiatives that create long-term impact.

The Foundation remains committed to elevating the voices of women and girls across Shropshire, ensuring they are supported, represented and empowered to pursue ambitious futures in every sector.

Sonia Roberts, Trustee at Shropshire Community Foundation, said:
“We’re delighted to partner with Dodd Group to create new opportunities for young people across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. This fund is about breaking down barriers and showing that careers in construction and engineering are open to everyone. By supporting hands-on STEM engagement, we can help inspire the next generation of young talent in our region.”

Full details of how to apply are available via the Shropshire Community Foundation website.