The Manatee Community Foundation is thrilled to announce the opening of its annual scholarship program starting January 1st, 2024. Designed to support the educational aspirations of promising students, the application will run until March 1st, 2024, offering a vital opportunity for Manatee and Sarasota students to pursue their academic goals. In the previous year, 2023, the Foundation proudly awarded 152 scholarships, embodying its commitment to fostering educational excellence and empowering our community. The scholarship program is a testament to the Foundation's unwavering dedication to investing in the future of our region by building the workforce needed and providing opportunities for everyone in our community to thrive. With a diverse array of scholarships tailored to various fields of study and academic achievements, the Manatee Community Foundation aims to provide accessible pathways to higher education for deserving local high school students and adults who want to attend college or trade school. Applicants are required to complete a single application to be considered for all available MCF scholarships. Information needed to complete the application includes:  A FAFSA confirmation email showing their Student Aid Index Estimation (required due to 2024 FAFSA changes); Two (2) reference surveys completed individuals known by the student (NOT family members or friends); A personal statement that highlights the student's life path, goals, and career ambitions; Transcripts from the last school the student attended. For further details and application guidelines, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the Manatee Community Foundation’s scholarship page. The link to apply for MCF scholarships will be live on this same page on January 1, 2024.