MNLA Academic Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association
Program Overview
The Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) awards scholarships to support students pursuing careers in the Green Industry. The program is funded entirely by contributions from MNLA, its members, and industry partners, with 100% of donations directed to scholarship awards. Scholarships help reduce financial barriers for students enrolled in Michigan college programs related to the Green Industry and support workforce development for the field. The association promotes these opportunities through its committees and events to reach qualified candidates.
Description: MNLA scholarships provide financial assistance to students entering or currently enrolled in Michigan college programs focused on the Green Industry. Application materials submitted become the property of MNLA and are not returned.
- Full donations go directly to scholarship awards.
- Supports students in Michigan Green Industry programs.
- Application materials are retained by MNLA.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
Applicants must be entering or already enrolled in a Michigan college program related to the Green Industry to be considered for the MNLA Academic Scholarship. The application process requires submission of an online application plus supporting documents that demonstrate academic and industry engagement. Required materials include a cover letter, resume, two letters of recommendation, and photos or information documenting industry work completed by the applicant. These criteria are used to evaluate candidate qualifications and fit for the scholarship.
Eligibility: Open to qualified applicants pursuing Green Industry–related programs at Michigan colleges, whether newly entering or currently enrolled.
- Online application plus supporting documents required.
- Two letters of recommendation required.
- Portfolio materials (photos/work information) strengthen applications.
Application Timeline and Contact
MNLA’s Career and Industry Development Committee accepts scholarship applications through November 1 each year. Award recipients are announced in December, and presentations take place at the Great Lakes Trade Expo in Lansing, Michigan, in late January. For questions about the application or process, applicants may contact MNLA's Associate Director Emily Huening or call the MNLA office. Applicants should observe deadlines and plan to submit complete materials by the stated cutoff.
Application Timeline: Applications due November 1; award announcements in December; presentations at the Great Lakes Trade Expo in late January.
- Annual application deadline: November 1.
- Awards announced in December.
- Presentations occur at the Great Lakes Trade Expo in January.
- Contact: Associate Director Emily Huening or MNLA office phone.
Funding, Impact, and Member Support
Scholarships are funded through MNLA contributions, member donations, and proceeds from industry events; all donor contributions are allocated directly to scholarship awards. These funds provide critical financial support that enables students to pursue education and enter the Green Industry workforce. Member participation—through dues renewals and fundraising events like the Annual Golf Outing—has directly increased the number and size of awards given. The scholarship program demonstrates MNLA’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of industry professionals.
History of the Award: Member fundraising and event proceeds, including dues renewals and the Annual Golf Outing, have historically fueled the scholarship fund and allowed MNLA to award scholarships to deserving students.
- 100% of donations go to scholarships.
- Member events and dues renewals are primary funding sources.
- Program directly supports workforce development in the Green Industry.