The IAAPA Foundation announced its largest-ever commitment to supporting future leaders in the global attractions industry through academic, experiential, and professional development scholarships. For the 2025-2026 cycle, the Foundation will award approximately $122,500 in scholarships to 105 recipients – a record investment aimed at empowering the next generation of talent.
Since its inception, the IAAPA Foundation has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to more than 195 students across North America and Europe. Looking ahead, the Foundation is developing new initiatives to expand support into the Latin America/Caribbean and Asia-Pacific regions, extending its global impact.
2025-2026 Scholarships
Academic Scholarships
Supporting tuition for students pursuing attractions and hospitality-related degrees:
- University of Central Florida – Rosen College of Hospitality Management (Orlando, Florida):
Five scholarships at $3,000 each (Total: $15,000) - Breda University of Applied Science (The Netherlands):
Four international scholarships at €2,500 each (Total: €10,000) - New for 2025 – Libera Università di Lingue e Comunicazione IULM (Milan, Italy):
Four international scholarships (Total: €12,000) - New for 2025 – California State University Fullerton (Fullerton, California):
28 scholarships supporting the SoCal Attractions Visit Series (Total: $15,000)
Experiential Scholarships
Facilitating student participation in IAAPA Expo to broaden real-world understanding of the careers in the industry:
- San Diego State University – Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management:
10 scholarships at $2,000 each (Total: $20,000) - Bowling Green State University – Six Flags RAAM Program (Sandusky, Ohio):
20 scholarships at $500 each (Total: $10,000) - New for 2025 – Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana):
20 scholarships at $1,000 each (Total: $20,000) - New for 2025 – IAAPA Family Entertainment Center (FEC) Scholarship:
One scholarship at $2,500
Professional Development Scholarships
Supporting attendance at industry safety and leadership programs:
- AIMS Safety Seminar (U.S.):
Seven scholarships at $1,000 each (Total: $7,000) - ASTM F24 Committee Meetings (Scottsdale, Arizona and Charlotte, N.C.):
Six scholarships at $1,000 each (Total: $6,000) - AIMS Latin America Seminar (Colombia):
Three scholarships at $1,000 each (Total: $3,000)
The IAAPA Foundation continues to raise awareness of the rewarding and dynamic career paths available in the attractions industry. These expanded scholarship opportunities reflect the Foundation’s strategic commitment to cultivating future talent and ensuring long-term growth and innovation within the global attractions community.