Austin J. Hart Entrepreneurial Scholarship

About the scholarship

The Austin J. Hart Entrepreneurial Scholarship is available to students who exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit. It is open to high school seniors set to graduate in the upcoming spring term and current Colorado State University students. The scholarship aims to support individuals who plan to attend or are already enrolled at Colorado State University. It is our aspiration that the awardees of this scholarship will perpetuate Austin’s enduring legacy characterized by selflessness, integrity, unwavering diligence, courage, and ambition.

Scholarship amount: $5,000

Number of awards: 1

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

Eligibility

• Be a graduating high school senior committed to Colorado State University or a student enrolled at Colorado State University.
• Be studying business, Economics, or Finance
• Have participated in entrepreneurial activities; additional consideration will be given to those who participate or plan to participate in the CSU Institute for Entrepreneurship
• Ability to receive the award in-person at Colorado State University on April 13, 2026.

About Austin J. Hart

Austin was a vibrant young man who lived life to the fullest, driven by an avid curiosity and a passion for anything with wheels or a motor, particularly hot rods. He instilled the values of goal-setting and hard work, exemplifying ethics, morals, and the importance of family and friends’ happiness. Graduating swiftly from Colorado State University, he established Hart Body Shop and later moved his business to Lake Havasu City, AZ, to pursue his dream of professional jet ski racing.

Austin enjoyed various outdoor activities, including fishing, dirt biking, off-roading, and golfing, and he had a heart for rescuing dogs. As a cherished friend, son, brother, grandson, nephew, and cousin, he lent his wisdom and support to others, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. Austin’s infectious smile embodied true happiness, and in his memory, his parents, Julie and Cody Hart, and his sister, Brittany Hart, established a memorial scholarship with contributions from friends and family to honor his legacy of warmth and generosity.

The 2026 scholarship application cycle is open from January 15 to March 15.

Apply Online

If you have questions or are interested in volunteering to review scholarship applications, contact scholarships@nocofoundation.org.