From mentorship to funding to family involvement—we support your whole journey.

The SFBU Startup Scholars Program funds first-generation students to build businesses, solve community problems, and create technology that matters—while earning your degree tuition-free.

Explore our frequently asked questions for the program.

Rolling Admissions, we are accepting applications and reviewing them until all our spots in the program are full. We encourage you to apply TODAY!

Apply to be a Startup Scholar
Meet Our Scholars
Startup scholars in a group smiling for a picture

What You'll Get as a Startup Scholar

Fund Your Vision

Receive up to $10,000 to develop your passion project—whether it's a tech startup, community initiative, or innovative research. This isn't a loan. It's an investment in your idea.

Full Financial Support

  • 100% tuition coverage for 4 years
  • Housing support through SFBU apartment rent coverage
  • $400/month meal plan
  • Laptop that's yours to keep after graduation

Expert Guidance

  • Access to SFBU President Dr. Nick Ladany
  • Dedicated staff and faculty mentor for your passion project and overall academic success at SFBU
  • One-on-one support from Dr. E. M. Nuñez, Assistant Director of Scholar Support & Educational Support
  • Connection to industry mentors in your field

Build Real Skills

  • Through our curriculum and hands-on project work, you'll develop:
  • Project management and milestone planning
  • Research and development of emerging technology
  • Professional communication and presentation
  • Creative problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Financial literacy and business fundamentals
Apply to be a Startup Scholar

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Launch a business, social enterprise, or nonprofit that solves a real problem in your community.

Community Impact

Create programs that support undeserved populations, advocate for change, or improve access to education, health, or sustainability.

Innovation & Research

Conduct research, design technology solutions, or explore creative problem-solving in STEM fields.

Our scholars are building everything from AI healthcare diagnostics to mobile tech repair services, from civic engagement platforms to automotive safety innovations. What will you create?

You're a strong candidate if you:

  • Have a 3.0 high school GPA or above
  • Are a first-generation college student
  • Have an idea or passion you want to develop (even if it's just getting started!)
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Can commit to at least 2 years fully enrolled at SFBU
  • Are excited to learn, create, and make an impact

You don't need to have everything figured out. You don't need a perfect business plan. You need curiosity, drive, and a willingness to turn your ideas into reality with our support.

Family Involvement Program

Your family can opt into a program that helps them support your college journey, connect with other Startup Scholar families, and stay informed about opportunities for involvement.

Comprehensive Student Services

You'll have access to the full SFBU Student Support Services team, ensuring you have academic, personal, and professional support throughout your time here.

A Community of Innovators

Join a cohort of fellow first-generation students who are building ventures, solving problems, and supporting each other's success.

Featured Scholar Spotlights

Brennen Spriggs

 

Brennen Spriggs - Bridging Citizens and Government

Computer Science | Cohort 2025

After interning with the City of New Orleans' Intergovernmental Relations department, Brennen saw firsthand how difficult it is for residents to access city services. Now he's building a digital platform to streamline connections between communities and their local governments—making civic engagement accessible to everyone.

Read Brennen's Story

Delaney Montes

 

Delaney Montes - Reimagining Women's Healthcare

Business Administration | Cohort 2024

Frustrated by long wait times and dismissive responses in women's healthcare, Delaney is developing an AI-powered platform that helps women understand their symptoms, identify potential conditions, and access personalized testing faster—putting health knowledge back in their hands.

Read Delaney's Story

Anthony Quinonez

 

Anthony Quinonez - AI Meets Medicine

Computer Science | Cohort 2024

Anthony is building the future of healthcare diagnostics by integrating artificial intelligence with medical technology. His passion project focuses on revolutionizing how doctors identify and treat conditions, making advanced healthcare more accurate and accessible.

Read Anthony's Story

Ready to Start Building?

The Startup Scholars Program isn't just about paying for college. It's about investing in you as an innovator, entrepreneur, and changemaker. Whether you want to start a business, serve your community, or pioneer new technology, we're here to help you make it happen.

Rolling Admissions, we are accepting applications and reviewing them until all our spots in the program are full. We encourage you to apply TODAY!

Apply to be a Startup Scholar
Contact us about Startup Scholars