About
Ivory Bridges Foundation provides a pathway to an equitable future for first-generation college students by supporting them with financial support and personalized success coaching.
Our Name
American colleges and universities were not originally created for all. The earliest universities served a dual purpose to train clergy and for the wealthy to signal their prestige to society. In the early 20th century, American colleges and universities were coined the 'Ivory Tower' due to their exclusive nature: a place where people were isolated from the problems of the world in favor of their own pursuits.
As time passed, colleges and universities became more inclusive, particularly for veterans, women, underrepresented minorities, and working-class communities. Although progress has been made, a substantial gap remains for students transitioning from college into the workforce, particularly for first-generation college students. Due to this pressing need, our mission remains strong: "Ivory Bridges Foundation provides a pathway to an equitable future for first-generation college students by supporting them with financial support and personalized success coaching."
Our Why
According to a report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), first-generation college graduates earn a starting salary up to 17% less than their peers who studied the same subject. This economic reality poses stifling barriers for the financial and professional development of students who are the first in their families to attend college. At Ivory Bridges, we find this gap unacceptable.
We believe that students who are the first in their families to graduate from college should obtain a strong return on investment from their college degrees. We help turn what has traditionally been a year of stress into a year of enrichment and intention by providing coaches that use an equity-oriented and tailored approach to outlining career goals, building healthy financial habits, and nourishing a strong sense of self.
Our Who
We select an intimate cohort of resourceful, talented, and ambitious first-generation college juniors and seniors who will go on to make prominent contributions to society. Each fellow embodies the resilience, diligence, and trailblazing spirit of those who are the first in their families to graduate from college.
Applicants must be enrolled in their sophomore or junior year at an accredited college or university and be on track to graduate Spring 2026 - Winter 2027 in the continental U.S. Please visit the FAQ page for more information about eligibility.
Our How
Our fellows receive:
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$5,000 scholarship**
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1-on-1 career coaching sessions to outline career goals
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1-on-1 financial coaching sessions to build healthy financial habits
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1-on-1 wellness coaching sessions to nourish a strong sense of self
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Access to an encouraging and supportive professional community and network
** Scholarship amount begins at $5,000 minimum. Subject to change depending on each year's market conditions.
Our Results
28
Number of Alums
100%
Graduation Rate
$230,000
Total Scholarship
Amount Granted
Application Details
Application Opens:
Applications Currently Closed
Application Closes:
Applications Currently Closed
Interviews:
TBD​​
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UPDATE: Due to the country's current shifting political landscape, we understand that the journey ahead can feel uncertain. At IBF, we remain committed to supporting first-gen scholars like yourself! To provide additional time and support, we will be extending our application deadline and pushing our interviews back one week later. You belong here and we're ready to walk with you every step of the way!
Materials Required:
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(Un)Official Transcript
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3 Short Responses
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Resume
We encourage you to follow our social media (@ivorybridgesfoundation) to learn more about our program, our coaches, and receive application updates.