The SEDC Educational Foundation annually awards five professional development scholarships. To be considered, this application must be returned by November 1st, 2021.  Scholarship recipients will be announced by December 1st, 2021.  The scholarships are given on a reimbursement basis, after the grantee has completed their program of interest.  Award winners must provide SEDC with proof of attendance/payment and will be reimbursed as soon as possible. Scholarship recipients will be announced in January and must be used during the 2022 calendar year.

Applicants and their sponsor(s) or employer should understand the rules associated with the scholarships. Please review the following before submitting an application:

Guidelines for General Professional Development Scholarships (four at $750 each):
1.    Scholarship payment must be used for tuition, housing and meals. Travel costs and other incidental expenses are the responsibility of recipient.
2.    Each recipient will be responsible for making his/her own travel arrangements and applying for course enrollment.
3.    SEDC will reimburse recipient at completion of the course upon submittal of proof of enrollment and payment.
4.    The Scholarship monies must be used within the calendar year specified.
 
Objectives of scholarships:
1.    To provide funding for professional development opportunities to those who have demonstrated need.
2.    To ensure the highest trained and prepared individuals in economic development in the country.
 
Criteria for selection:
1.    Scholarships will be awarded based on need.
2.    Applicants musEDC members in good standing (except for student applicants who have not graduated and are not professionally employed and the Bob Cassell Scholarship).
3.    Applicants must demonstrate dedication to the profession and intent to continue within the field.t be S
4.    Scholarships must be used within the calendar year specified and cannot be used for training/courses completed prior to awarding.
 
Eligible activities or courses recognized*:
1.    Any SEDC event
2.    Any IEDC Economic Development Course within the SEDC member states
3.    The University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute
4.    The Community Development Institutes
5.    Student scholarships for academic institutions (SEDC professionals who are returning to school are qualified to apply as well).

*All courses and activities must be held in the SEDC 17-state territory.