NRF Foundation Retail Scholarship

NRF Foundation Retail Scholarship

  • Award: Two (2) scholarships of $1,000 each

The NRF Foundation provides access to the education and opportunities needed for successful retail careers, helping people build better lives and stronger communities. RISE Up is the NRF Foundation training and credentialing program that provides foundational employability skills to help people land jobs and get promoted in retail and beyond.

The RISE Up curriculum and exams are industry-recognized and were developed in collaboration with more than 30 retailers, including Walmart, Macy’s, The Home Depot, Burlington Stores, BJ’s Wholesale Club, and Nordstrom. Each year, more than 60,000 students, 6,000 educators, and 3,500 locations nationwide engage with the NRF Foundation RISE Up curriculum.

The NRF Foundation will provide two (2) scholarships valued at $1,000 each to currently active BPA members who have a career interest in retail.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Scholarships are awarded based on:

  • Interest in a career in retail, including store leadership, distribution center and supply chain roles, and corporate office roles such as finance, marketing, communications, technology, product design and development, buying, planning, human resources, and operations
  • Currently employed with a retailer
  • BPA participation
  • Leadership ability

NRF Definition of a Retailer

  • The core business is selling consumer goods directly to the end consumer via storefront, catalog, television, or online
  • The company owns the merchandise it sells
  • The company can provide a business license confirming its status upon request
  • The company is currently in business
  • Chain restaurants, grocers, and convenience stores are included in this definition

Application Requirements (All PDF)

  • A completed application form
  • A one-page resume
  • A letter of recommendation from a current retail employer
Tip: Ensure all application materials are submitted in PDF format. Incomplete applications or non-PDF submissions will not be reviewed.

Applicant Information

Student Name(Required)
Your Email Address(Required)
Advisor Name(Required)
Current Grade Level(Required)
Please enter a number from 1 to 10.

Retail Employment Information

Are you currently employed by a retailer as defined by the NRF Foundation?(Required)
(Applicants must be currently employed to be eligible.)
(75–125 words)

Resume Upload (PDF Required)

Upload a one-page resume (PDF).
The resume should highlight:
  • Retail work experience
  • BPA participation and leadership
  • Other relevant leadership or workforce experience
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 256 MB.

Letter of Recommendation (PDF Required)

Upload a letter of recommendation from your current retail employer.
The letter should:
  • Be written by a supervisor or manager
  • Confirm current employment with the retailer
  • Address the applicant’s work ethic, leadership ability, and potential for a career in retail
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 256 MB.