NRAEF Accepting Scholarship Applications

AUSTIN, TX (January 26, 2023) – The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is accepting applications for the more than $1 million in scholarships it awards annually to students seeking additional education and career opportunities in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industries.

The Foundation says students should apply for the grants by March 15.

Grants help offset some costs of education

Rob Gifford, the NRAEF’s president, said the scholarships help reduce the financial burdens some students face as they pursue their post-secondary education, and are a great way to support the industry’s future leaders.

“By reducing some of the costs associated with higher education, our scholarships help students from all backgrounds jumpstart a career in our industry,” he said. “They also help us attract and advance the next generation of talent and leaders our businesses need to continue to succeed.”

The Foundation’s scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000, and can be used toward tuition and fees, room, board, and the purchase of books as well as other school-related expenses. There are no age restrictions; anyone pursuing higher education in a restaurant-, foodservice- and/or hospitality-related field is eligible to apply.

In 2022, the Foundation awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 282 students from 44 U.S. states and territories. Nearly 60% of them identified as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, and two out of three self-identified as female. In addition, one out of six recipients were members of the military or family members of military service men and women. Furthermore, 50% of them were first in their families to pursue post-secondary educations.

Funding for the scholarships is supported by the Burger King Foundation, Coca-Cola Co., Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers, Darden Restaurants, the Foundation, Hormel Foods Corp., J.M. Smucker Co., PepsiCo Stronger Together, Rachael Ray’s Yum-o! Organization, Rich Family Foundation, and the Women’s Foodservice Forum.

Learn more about the NRAEF. Applicants can complete their forms using the Foundation’s online portal.