NRF Foundation Retail Scholarship
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