Full tuition, Full Support, Full entrepreneurial investment

The SFBU Startup Scholars Program is a cohort-based initiative that provides deserving students across Silicon Valley with full access to educational opportunities and resources for success.

 

This is a chance for you to think big, take risks, and create something lasting—whether a business, a movement, or a transformative idea. The Startup Scholars Program is here to support and guide students in making their vision a reality.

Startup Scholars group

SFBU Startup Scholars receive:
 

  • Full ride scholarship (100% tuition paid for 4 years)

  • Full living expenses (SFBU apartment rent-free)

  • $10,000 investment into a passion project

  • Personal access to, and support from, SFBU President Nick Ladany, Ph.D.

  • Access to, and tailored support from, our SFBU Success Advocate — so that you can plot a course of action to achieve your goals

  • Parent Involvement Program so families can receive communications about upcoming events, reminders and deadlines, updates on new programs, and other pertinent information.

  • Loaner Laptop to be used during your time at the university and gifted upon graduation

  • Monthly meal plan included

Apply to be a Startup Scholar
Contact us about Startup Scholars
Apply to SFBU through the Common App

startup scholars application process

  • High school GPA of 3.0
  • Demonstrated idea/plan for a passion project (see additional information below.)
  • Status as a first-generation student
  • Applicants must be within the United States, international applicants are not eligible.
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Commitment to remain at SFBU for a minimum of 2 academic years fully enrolled

An opportunity for scholars to take the initiative in exploring an idea, challenge, or opportunity that is personally meaningful while building skills that contribute to their academic and professional success. These projects should reflect innovation, leadership, and social impact, aligning with the program’s mission to support first-generation, low-income students' journey toward success.

A passion project should be driven by curiosity, purpose, and action. It can take many forms, including but not limited to:

  • Entrepreneurial Initiatives – Developing a business, social enterprise, or nonprofit that addresses a problem or fills a gap in the community.
  • Community Impact Projects – Creating programs or initiatives that support underserved communities, advocate for change, or improve accessibility in education, health (mental and or physical), or sustainability.
  • Innovation & Research – Conducting research, designing technology solutions, or exploring creative problem-solving in STEM fields.