Scholarship Program

The National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) is now accepting self-nominations for the 2026 Professional Development Scholarship Program.  

The scholarship program recognizes the importance of training and education, as well as networking, in the field of Economic Development.  The program is open to NREDA members and non-members with a focus on those new to the economic development profession.

Two scholarships will be awarded in 2026 and include a complimentary registration to the NREDA Annual Conference to be held November 4-6, 2025 in Salt Lake City, UT.  Additionally, if non-members are selected, a 2026 NREDA membership (for the remainder of the year) will also be included.  Priority in selection will be given to those who have not attended a past NREDA Annual Conference.

Application submissions for the NREDA 2026 Professional Development Scholarship are due August 14, 2026. 

Click Here for the Application

The NREDA leadership will review all scholarship applications and will contact the two selected recipients by September 15th, 2026.  Scholarship recipients who are selected will be notified with full details, including conference and/or membership application information.  Recipients are eligible to receive a scholarship once.  Applicants who are not selected are eligible to apply again for future programs.