Restaurant Foundation Offers Nearly $1 M in Academic Scholarships

Students pursuing post-secondary study in restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality fields can apply starting today for an academic scholarship from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The NRAEF will award nearly $1 million in scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in industry careers are encouraged to apply through March 15 at ChooseRestaurants.org/Scholarships.

Scholarships are available to students in all stages of life – whether graduating from high school or changing careers. Financial awards range from $2,500 to $10,000 and can be used to defray education-related expenses, including tuition and fees, books, and room and board.

Last year nearly 300 persons from received a 2024 scholarship. Scholars represented more than 130 colleges and universities, and ranged in age from high school graduates to nearly 60 years old. Their range of studies highlighted the depth and breadth of industry careers for people from all walks of life across culinary arts, hospitality management, and marketing. Learn more about last year's class of scholarship recipients here.

Bev/al companies supporting the NRAEF Scholarship Program include Beam Suntory and American Beverage Marketers, a producer and marketer of cocktail syrups.