This presentation will focus on how data was used to identify some of the factors contributing to poor retention and graduation rates, and develop a strategy to address the problems. This data-driven approach resulted in a funded National Science Foundation STEP Grant, �MMNet: Growing an Urban STEM Talent Pool Across New York City� (award ID 0622493). Through grant funded activities, combined with coordination of existing efforts, well-marked pathways from high school through the associate and bachelor's degrees to employment or graduate education, and a safety net of academic, social, and economic supports are being created. Activities include creation of unique summer bridge courses, mentoring by City Tech alumni now in graduate school, opportunities for research and internships, and peer-led team learning. This presentation will provide suggestions on preparing successful grants, project implementation, and using assessment to gauge the effectiveness of the program.