Purpose of the Scholarship
The Next Chapter Scholarship was created to support adult women entering a new season of life — whether returning to school, changing careers, rebuilding after hardship, or finally stepping into a long-delayed goal.
This scholarship honors resilience, courage, growth, and forward momentum. It is not solely based on academic performance, but on heart, readiness, and the willingness to steward a new opportunity well.
Who This Scholarship Is For
Eligible applicants must:
- Be an adult woman (age 25+ recommended, though not required)
- Reside in Michigan
- Be nominated through the official Made for More nomination form
- Demonstrate readiness for growth and commitment to a new chapter
- Be entering or currently enrolled in:
- A college or university program
- A trade or certification program
- A workforce re-entry program
- A career-building educational experience
This scholarship is especially intended for women who:
- Are returning to education after time away
- Are rebuilding after divorce, loss, financial hardship, or major life transition
- Are the primary provider for their family
- Have overcome significant obstacles
Scholarship Amount
The 2026 Next Chapter Scholarship award amount:
$1,200.00
Funds will be paid directly to the educational institution or approved program.
Important Dates – 2026 Cycle
Nomination Deadline: March 20
Essay Submission Deadline: April 17
Recipient Announced: April 24
Late submissions will not be considered.
The Nomination Process
- A community member, educator, employer, mentor, or friend submits a nomination through the official Google Form.
- The nominee will be contacted directly by Made for More Initiative.
- If eligible, the nominee will be invited to submit a personal essay and supporting documentation.
- Self-nominations are not accepted for the 2026 pilot year.
Essay Requirements
Invited nominees will submit:
- A 750–1,000 word personal essay answering:
- What season of life are you currently navigating?
- What is the “next chapter” you are stepping into?
- What obstacles have you overcome?
- How will this scholarship impact your future?
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance (if available)
- One character reference (non-family)
- Essays must be submitted by April 17.
Selection Criteria
The Made for More Board will review all submissions based on:
- Demonstrated resilience
- Clarity of purpose
- Commitment to growth
- Financial need
- Impact potential
- Alignment with the mission of Made for More
- Academic GPA is considered but is not the primary determining factor.
- Recipient Expectations
The scholarship recipient agrees to:
- Provide confirmation of enrollment
- Use funds exclusively for educational purposes
- Participate in one Made for More spotlight feature (photo/interview)
- Provide a brief impact update within one year
A Note About This Pilot Year
The 2026 cycle is our inaugural year for the Next Chapter Scholarship. As a pilot program, processes and requirements may evolve in future years as we grow and learn.
We believe deeply that every woman carries purpose — even in seasons that feel uncertain.
