$5K Scholarships in Entrepreneurship

• OVERVIEW

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The Scholarships in Entrepreneurship program attracts students from across the country  to California State University, Fresno to educate and retain as future entrepreneurs for the Central Valley.

Scholarships will be granted to high school and community college students who have an existing business and enroll at California State University, Fresno. Up to eight students will receive $5,000 each for supporting their education and expanding their business while in school. Selected students can use the funds toward tuition, student housing and books.  Incorporated into the scholarships, students will be provided with office space in the new Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s “Hatchery,” an area designed to support student businesses through mentoring and coaching.

BACKGROUND
Scholarships in Entrepreneurship were granted for the first time in the spring of 2007. The Coleman Foundation has provided seed funding to launch the scholarships and elevate the program from concept to practice.

Even though high school and community college students with businesses form a small segment of the population, their potential is yet to be tapped. California State University, Fresno now has the unique opportunity to establish itself as a destination for students with budding entrepreneurial ventures. The Scholarships in Entrepreneurship program will place California State University, Fresno on the national stage and attract students who have never before received support from universities to continue operating their businesses while attending college.

REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be an existing high school or community college student
• Have a current operating business OR
• Plan to have a business up and running in the Fresno area
• Qualify for acceptance into California State University, Fresno
• Meet deadlines for admission into CSU, Fresno

REGISTRATION
Advanced registration is required. In order to compete in the business competition, the following items must be submitted:

1. Application: The one-page application is used to obtain key contact and business information.

2. Business Plan: Visit here for sample business plans >>

You may also attach to the application: newspaper articles, photographs, a small product sample, marketing flyer, and business cards. As a business plan is very important in running a successful business, it is advised that a significant effort be spent here.

3. Business License:You must provide a copy of your current business license.