NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship

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 skills in retailing, business and critical thinking, and prepares and encourages students to launch their career in retail and earn recognition among the next generation of leaders in the industry. Since its launch, more than $800,000 in funds have been awarded through the NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Juniors or seniors enrolled full time at a university member school at the time when the scholarship is presented in January 2026 (Note: current sophomores can apply if they will be of junior standing in January of 2026)
• Must not have previously received an award of $10,000 or more from the NRF Foundation
• Must be U.S. citizens or legal U.S. residents eligible to work in the United States
• Must have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale
• Must have prior or current experience working in a retail job or internship. This could be anything from working as a bagger at a grocery store or a server/host at a restaurant to having a summer internship with a retailer.
• Students in any major are eligible. Possible majors include business, merchandising, supply chain, analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, accounting, retail studies, computer science, marketing, communications, etc.

The top recipient will receive a $25,000 tuition scholarship and will serve on the NRF Foundation Board of Directors for one year. Four finalists will receive $10,000 tuition scholarships each. The 2025-26 Next Generation Scholarship application is now open with a deadline of May 28.

Please visit the website in order to apply.