PAVE Global and Shop! Association Launch 2026 Shop! Scholarship + Experience

PAVE Global, in partnership with Shop! Association, is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Shop! Scholarship + Experience. Now in its fourth year, the program supports one college-level student pursuing a career in the design of retail, hospitality, and consumer environments through financial assistance and firsthand industry exposure.

The selected student will have the opportunity to attend Shop! Marketplace 2026, taking place May 6–7, 2026, at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. The scholarship includes a $1,200 grant to support conference attendance, a $600 cash award, and access to educational sessions, the exhibit floor, and networking opportunities with professionals across the retail design industry. The total prize package is valued at $1,800.

“At Shop!, we believe the future of retail is built by the talent we empower today,” said Murray Kasmenn, Executive Director of Shop! Association. “Our continued support of PAVE Global and the Shop! Scholarship + Experience reflects a shared commitment to creativity, education, and opportunity. By connecting students to real-world experiences, we’re helping shape a more innovative, inclusive, and inspired industry.”

The scholarship is open to students enrolled in programs related to Interior Design, Retail Design, Hospitality Design, Visual Merchandising, Architecture, UX Design, Engineering, Industrial Design, Product Design, and related fields. Applicants must be current third- or fourth-year students in a four-year program, or second-year students in a two-year program, as of May 2026, and must be studying within the United States.

Applications must be submitted through Submittable by Monday, March 30, 2026, before 11:59 PM Eastern/8:59 PM Pacific. Required materials include a letter of consideration, a project folio, and a current academic transcript.

Shop! Marketplace is the global trade show dedicated to elevating the in-store experience, presented by Shop! Association in partnership with VMSD and SmartWork Media. The annual event brings together retailers, brand owners, designers, and solution providers to explore emerging trends, innovations, and best practices shaping the future of consumer environments.

The Shop! Scholarship + Experience is part of the PAVE Scholarship Program, now in its fifteenth year. Over the past three years, PAVE Global has awarded more than $254,400 in scholarships and grants, helping students reduce financial barriers, gain industry exposure, and move more confidently from education into professional practice.

For full eligibility details and to apply, visit www.paveglobal.org/shop-scholarship.

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About Shop! Association

Shop! Association is the global retail trade association dedicated to elevating the in-store experience and advancing the evolution of retail. Representing companies and affiliates worldwide, Shop! connects the industry through education, research, events, and awards while supporting retailers, brands, designers, producers, and suppliers. Learn more at www.shopassociation.org.

About PAVE Global

Founded in 1992 as The Planning and Visual Education Partnership, PAVE Global is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation that enables young talent to build successful careers designing and creating consumer environments. PAVE connects students, educators, and industry through financial assistance, mentorship, inspiration, and access to real-world opportunities. Learn more at www.paveglobal.org.