Institute for Family-Owned Business Maine Futures Scholarship

The IFOB Maine Futures Scholarship was established in 2025 to provide tuition assistance to Maine residents pursuing a degree or certificate at an accredited post-secondary institution.

This scholarship is made possible through the generous support of IFOB family members, Board Members, Janet Cole Cross, and other families dedicated to preserving and strengthening the tradition of family-owned businesses in Maine.

Scholarship Overview

The scholarship is awarded annually to a Maine resident attending a post-secondary educational institution, including four-year colleges, two-year associate programs, and vocational schools.

The IFOB Maine Futures Scholarship recognizes students who aspire to become the future leaders of their family businesses and their communities. Recipients are selected based on their demonstrated commitment to continuing the legacy of Maine-based family business, as well as their entrepreneurial mindset, independent thinking, initiative, work ethic, and leadership abilities.

It is not required to own or work in a family business to apply or receive this scholarship. Our hopes are that this student will go on to help the Maine family business community in some way.

Scholarship Details

  • Award Amount: $2,500 per year
  • Renewable: Up to four years, contingent on enrollment and GPA or certificate completion
  • Application Deadline: Friday, May 30, 2025, by 10:00 a.m.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a Maine resident
  • Attend a Maine-based post-secondary educational institution
  • Intend to complete a full two-year or four-year degree program or certificate equivalent

Application Requirements

  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA or letter in good standing or completion with a certificate program
  • Submit a 300-word essay outlining educational goals, career aspirations, and how the scholarship will help
  • Provide two letters of recommendation (from school officials, professors, or community leaders) or optional up to three
  • Submit annual proof of enrollment and attendance
  • You do not have to be part of a family business to apply or receive this award

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Apply Today!

Click the link below to apply. Reach out to Brooke Stewart, Director of Communications, Institute for Family-Owned Business, with any question or if you need assistance.

  1. Complete application here (you will need to complete the 3 pages of questions for the application in one sitting. You can upload your essay and two letters of recommendation below separately.
  2. Submit Essay here
  3. Submit your two letters of recommendation here (submit as a PDF or word doc)

Award decisions are made at the discretion of IFOB’s Board of Directors. The scholarship will be awarded in the form of a check directly to the institution the award winner has determined he or she will attend following proof of enrollment and attendance each year.

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