Next Generation Scholarship

Scholarship Description:
The NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship is the pinnacle achievement for students interested in pursuing careers in retail. This opportunity was created for students of various academic backgrounds who have demonstrated leadership skills, previous retail experience, and a passion for making an impact.

This scholarship develops students’ skills in retailing, business, and critical thinking, preparing and encouraging them to not only launch their career in retail, but be recognized among the next generation of leaders in the industry.

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements:
Entry. Each student who fulfills all of the eligibility requirements applies for the Scholarship by having all components of the application—which includes an essay, a personal brand video, one letter of recommendation, transcript, resume, and head shot—completed and submitted.

University Members must have a current membership in NRF at the time when the student submits their application in order for students to submit their application. There is no limit to the number of students who can apply per University Member. 

Appearances. Eligible students must be available to attend and participate in: (1) the 2026 NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City, January 8-11, 2026, including the NRF Foundation Honors in New York City on January 11, 2026.

Status. Any student eligible to earn a scholarship must be a junior or senior enrolled full-time at a University Member school at the time when the scholarship is presented in January 2025. Employees of National Retail Federation and their immediate families and household members are ineligible to enter and earn scholarships.
 
One-time Scholarship Recipient. Eligible students must not have previously received an award of $10,000 or more from the NRF Foundation.
 
Citizenship. Eligible students must be U.S. Citizens or legal U.S. residents eligible to work in the United States.
 
Grade Point Average. Eligible students must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.

Retail Experience. Eligible students must have prior or current experience working in a retail job or retail internship. 

Please click on the 2025-26 Next Generation Scholarship link for additional details.