NRF Foundation RISE Up Scholarship

NRF Foundation RISE Up Scholarship

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

The NRF Foundation RISE Up Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in retail and business by providing access to education, industry-recognized credentials, and leadership development opportunities. The RISE Up program was developed in collaboration with more than 30 national retailers and equips students with foundational employability skills needed to succeed in retail and beyond.

The NRF Foundation will award two (2) scholarships valued at $1,000 each to currently active BPA members who have earned, or are actively earning, a RISE Up credential.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Scholarships are awarded based on:

  • RISE Up credential status and completion progress
  • BPA participation and leadership involvement
  • Demonstrated leadership ability and career readiness

Submission Requirements

  • All application materials must be submitted in PDF format
  • Applicants must upload:
    • Proof of RISE Up credential completion or a teacher/advisor letter confirming the credential is in progress
    • A one-page resume highlighting BPA experience, retail work experience, and leadership activities
    • A completed combined scholarship statement
Tip: Make sure all files are saved as PDFs before submitting. Incomplete 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.

RISE Up Credential Status

Which RISE Up credential(s) have you earned or are you currently earning?(Required)
Select all that apply.
Credential Status (select one):(Required)
Date completed or expected completion date (MM/YYYY)
Options for Proof of Credential (PDF required):
☐ Proof of RISE Up credential completion (certificate or official documentation)
☐ Letter from a teacher or advisor confirming the credential is currently in progress
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 256 MB.

Resume Upload (PDF Required)

Upload a one-page resume (PDF) that highlights:
☐ BPA participation and leadership experience
☐ Any work experience in the retail industry
☐ Other relevant leadership, service, or workforce experiences
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 256 MB.

Personal Statement

In one brief statement, address all the following:
  • Your RISE Up credential(s) and the skills you have gained
  • Your involvement and leadership within BPA Your involvement and leadership within BPA
  • How these experiences prepare you for future education or a career in retail or business

Word limit: 150–200 words