Your story. Your way. Your future.
2026-2027 UpSpring Empowerment Scholarship

Continuing your education after high school is a big step. Whether you're planning to attend college, pursue a technical or vocational program, or learn a trade, UpSpring wants to help you get there.

The UpSpring Empowerment Scholarship Fund provides financial support to students who have experienced homelessness in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky as they take the next step in their education.

We know that every student's experience is different. We want to hear about yours: what you've accomplished, what you've learned, and what you hope to do next.

Applications are open November 2, 2026, through February 26, 2027.
Scholarship awards are non-renewable and may be used for tuition, room and board, or other educational expenses.

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION (PDF)
DOWNLOAD APPLICATION (WORD)

Who is eligible?

Students must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Be a current high school senior or a graduate entering their first year of postsecondary education.

  • Have a minimum 2.0 unweighted high school GPA.

  • Be admitted to or enrolled in an accredited, non-proprietary two- or four-year college or university, vocational or technical college, or trade school.

  • Demonstrate financial need through a filed FAFSA or verified McKinney-Vento student status.

Tell us about yourself! Your story. Your way.

We want to learn more about you, your experiences, and your plans for the future. For your personal response, you can choose the format that works best for you:

All three formats are evaluated equally. No matter which you choose, we'll ask you to share four things: your journey, your strengths, your future goals, and how a scholarship would help you take your next step.

You don't need to share personal or traumatic experiences to apply. We want to hear what you feel comfortable sharing about yourself and what you're working toward.

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION (PDF)
DOWNLOAD APPLICATION (WORD)

How to Apply

Submit the completed application along with your most recent high school transcript, two letters of recommendation, and your personal response.

Applications and supporting materials should be emailed to jordan@upspring.org.

Questions about the application or eligibility? Contact Jordan Mitchell at jordan@upspring.org.

We're looking forward to hearing from you!