Black & Jones Scholarship Fund
In celebration of our 25th anniversary, we are proud to launch the Black & Jones Scholarship Fund. This fund aims to financially support high school graduates from the Rockford area who are pursuing vocational education at accredited trade schools–helping them build successful careers in essential trades.
About the Scholarship Fund
Scholarship Details
In 2025, for the inaugural year of the fund, ten (10) scholarships will be awarded.
Each scholarship is valued at $2,500.
Scholarship funds must be applied directly toward tuition, fees, books, tools and other necessary educational expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be graduating high school seniors (Class of 2025).
Applicants must graduate from a high school located within a 25-mile radius of Rockford, IL.
Applicants must enroll and attend an accredited trade or vocational school beginning in the fall semester of academic year 2025-2026.
Proof of enrollment is required before funds are disbursed.
Application Period & Deadline
June 16 – September 16, 2025
Award decisions will be communicated to recipients by October 16, 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
For further questions, please email contact@bold.org.
OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Application Requirements & Selection Process
A committee appointed by Black & Jones will select scholarship recipients based on the merit of their personal statement and demonstration of commitment to vocational training. Applications will be reviewed in the order they are received. The first 50 applicants will be considered for the scholarship. Award decisions will be communicated to recipients by October 16, 2025.
A Complete Application includes:
- Completed scholarship application form on bold.org.
- Student profile
- Personal statement (250-500 words) detailing career aspirations, as well as the importance of learning trade work and its impact on our society.
Scholarship Award Distribution & Conditions
Scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the trade or vocational school after enrollment verification is provided by the recipient.
Funds must be utilized within one academic year of disbursement.
Scholarships are non-renewable and are awarded only once.
Recipients agree to participate in promotional activities related to the scholarship, including, but not limited to, interviews, photos and recognition ceremonies.
Black & Jones reserves the right to amend these rules at its sole discretion.