Bob Richardson Legacy Scholarship

Name: Bob Richardson Legacy Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000

Information And Eligibility:
The Bob Richardson Legacy Scholarship is a career-focused award administered by the NGA Foundation to support students who are preparing for leadership and professional roles within the independent grocery industry. Established in honor of Bob Richardson, a respected advocate for independent grocers, this scholarship reflects the NGA Foundation’s long-standing mission to invest in the next generation of industry professionals. Since 1990, the NGA Foundation and its affiliates have awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to students pursuing careers that strengthen and sustain the independent grocery sector.

This scholarship is open to a broad range of students, from rising college freshmen through graduate-level students, who are enrolled at accredited colleges or universities in the United States. Eligible applicants must be pursuing academic pathways that align with careers in the grocery industry. Common majors include business administration, food management, accounting, human resources, information technology, supply chain management, marketing, and other disciplines that support grocery operations, leadership, and innovation.

A distinguishing aspect of the Bob Richardson Legacy Scholarship is its strong emphasis on real-world industry experience. Applicants who have worked in grocery stores, distribution centers, food retail operations, or related roles are highly encouraged to apply. Experience may include part-time or full-time employment, internships, or family involvement in independent grocery businesses. This practical exposure demonstrates commitment to the industry and provides valuable context for academic learning.

The scholarship is designed to help offset education-related expenses such as tuition, fees, textbooks, and required academic supplies. While the award amount is $1,000, the recognition associated with the scholarship is equally valuable. Recipients are acknowledged as emerging professionals within the independent grocery community and gain visibility among industry leaders connected to the NGA Foundation.

Applicants must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and be enrolled at the time of scholarship disbursement, which typically occurs during the fall semester. Selection is based on a combination of academic performance, relevance of the student’s field of study, demonstrated interest in the grocery industry, and any applicable work experience. Students who clearly articulate how their education connects to long-term career goals within independent grocery retail are especially competitive.

The Bob Richardson Legacy Scholarship supports the continued vitality of independent grocers by encouraging talented students to pursue careers that contribute to local economies, food access, and community-centered retail. By investing in education and workforce development, the NGA Foundation helps ensure that independent grocery businesses remain innovative, resilient, and competitive in an evolving marketplace.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a rising college freshman through graduate student.
• Must attend an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Must be enrolled at the time of scholarship disbursement.
• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
• Must be pursuing a major related to careers in the grocery industry.
• Grocery industry work experience is strongly valued.

Application Requirements:

• Completed scholarship application through the NGA Foundation platform.
• Proof of enrollment at a U.S. college or university.
• Academic transcript verifying GPA.
• Documentation of grocery industry experience, if applicable.

Deadline: Not specified

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