The NRF Foundation offers a variety of scholarship programs for college students to enhance their education, experience retail in new and exciting ways and make valuable connections as they take steps towards promising careers. Our scholarship programs expose students to a transformative industry and introduce them to industry recruiters and executives, all while earning money toward their tuition and education.
Meet Garrett Ledbetter
Garrett Ledbetter, a Next Generation Scholarship finalist, found a leadership role in retail quickly after graduating. We sat down with him to learn more about his retail career path, how he’s already shaping retail’s next generation of talent and what the industry means to him today.
Next Generation Scholarship
The NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship is the pinnacle achievement for students at a NRF University Member school who are currently pursuing retail careers or majors relevant to retail. This opportunity was created for students who have demonstrated leadership skills, previous retail experience, and a passionate interest in making an impact in the retail industry.
University Challenge Competition
The NRF Foundation University Challenge is back! This business case-competition was created for undergraduate college students with entrepreneurial spirits, sharp business acumen and creative minds pursuing any degree major relevant to retail such as business, finance, entrepreneurship, merchandising and buying, marketing, public relations and communications, graphic design and more.
Bright Futures Scholarship
The NRF Foundation Bright Futures Scholarship is a need-based scholarship that offers the opportunity for students to attend the 2023 NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City, free of charge. The NRF Foundation Student Program offers students the chance to explore exciting career paths in the retail industry and accelerate their careers.
Opportunities for Technology & Supply Chain Students
For six years, the NRF Foundation has been recognizing students across the country who have a passion and curiosity for digital commerce, technology, and innovation in the retail space through the Ray Greenly Scholarship Fund. This year, students in technology and supply chain majors are eligible to apply for free travel and stay at the 2022 Student Program in New York City.
Rising Stars Scholarship
The Rising Stars Scholarship was created to teach younger students about the variety of career opportunities available in the retail industry, and to encourage them to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program at Retail's BIG Show early in their academic careers.
Other opportunities
NRF Student Association
The NRF Student Association provides talented students interested in retail careers unique opportunities.
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Get real-world experience with the NRF Foundation Student Challenge
The 2021 NRF Foundation Student Challenge business case competition is now open
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University Membership Benefits
NRF membership provides resources, tools and experiences to support and promote retail education, research and careers.
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