CFWF Hospitality scholarship
Uplifting emerging talent, deepening student involvement, and strengthening the long-term growth of our city’s culinary community.
The Columbia Food & Wine Festival is proud to launch the CFWF Hospitality Scholarship, created to support the next generation of hospitality leaders right here in Columbia. Our goal is simple: to uplift emerging talent, deepen student involvement in the festival, and strengthen the long-term growth of our city’s culinary community.
Each year, two outstanding USC Hospitality students will receive a $2,500 scholarship to support their education and fuel their journey into a career within the hospitality industry.
This scholarship reflects our belief that Columbia’s future is shaped by the students who learn, train, and dream here today — and we want to help them build that future right here at home.
Eligibility
Must be majoring in Hospitality or Tourism Management at the University of South Carolina
Must be graduating between May 2027 and May 2028
Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Scholarship Award
$2,500 scholarship applied toward educational expenses
Special recognition at the CFWF Preview Party on April 22
Invitation to join the Strategic Growth Committee for the following festival cycle
Opportunities for exposure and hands-on experience in the culinary and hospitality community
Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by the Strategic Growth Committee, a diverse group of culinary, hospitality, and community leaders who guide the festival’s long-term vision.
Timeline
Applications open: December 9
Applications close: February 15
Recipients notified: Early April
Scholarships awarded: April 22
Selection Criteria
We’re looking for students who show promise, passion, and purpose in their hospitality journey.
Highest Priority
A compelling personal perspective or story — especially a demonstrated desire to build a career in restaurants or hospitality
Strong Factors
- Community engagement (service industry experience, extracurricular activities)
Diversity & inclusion considerations
Needs-based factors
Medium / Lower Priority
Innovation or a fresh point of view
Past achievements or accolades
Required: Must be available for the Preview Party on the evening of Wednesday, April 22.
Apply to CFWF's Hospitality Scholarship Today
Students must complete a short application and upload their resume along with 1–2 references. A brief essay (2–3 paragraphs) is required.