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2026 Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Application Career-Oriented / Technical / Vocational Programs Track

Application Deadline: February 20, 2026 at NOON ET
Mandatory In-person Interview by an Independent Panel of Judges: March 23, 2026
In-person Interview Location: To Be Announced
Scholarship In-person Award Date: April 14, 2026

Applications must be submitted through the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce website. Email, mailed, or text applications will not be accepted.
About This Scholarship
The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting students who are pursuing a skilled trade, technical certification, or career-focused program that leads directly to employment. This scholarship recognizes high-school seniors who demonstrate strong character, a solid work ethic, commitment to their community, and a focused desire to build a successful and impactful career through vocational or technical education. Our goal is to understand who you are, what you value, and how your chosen trade or technical path will help you contribute to your future, your community, and your industry.
Eligibility Requirements
Note: Financial need is not a factor in selection.
Selection Criteria - A SCORE judging panel (independent former business owners) will evaluate applications based on:
What to Prepare Before You Begin - You will need clean digital versions of the following:
Document Format Requirements: All uploaded documents must be clean, clear, and easy to read. Only the following file types will be accepted: PDF, PNG, JPEG/JPG. Photos of documents must be well-lit, not cropped, straight, and free of shadows or glare. Blurry or unreadable files = incomplete application = not eligible for review.
NEW FOR 2026: Applicant Showcase Section (Optional)
Showcase Requirement: Your submission must be one single page, sized 8.5 x 11 inches, and saved as PDF, PNG, or JPEG/JPG only, straight, and free of shadows or glare.
Additional Information:
• Scholarship monies are paid directly to the student to assist with tuition and required books. • Submissions become the property of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. • Incomplete applications will not be considered. • SCORE, a third-party group of former business owners, has volunteered to be the selection committee. Their decision of interviewees and winner(s) is final. • Candidates agree to all the rules of this document. • All applicants will be notified of the selection committee's decision.
Applicant Name
Applicant's Home Address
This field is required. Your phone number will only be used for time-sensitive communication related to your scholarship application, including: Clarifying missing or unreadable documents; Confirming an interview (if applicable); Reaching you if you do not respond to important emails in a timely manner. Your number will not be used for marketing purposes or shared outside of the scholarship selection process.
Your email address will not be used for marketing purposes or shared outside of the scholarship selection process.
Academic Information
Community, Leadership & Work Experience
Tip: Focus on impact—not just hours.
Short Answer Questions
100–150 words each
100–150 words
100–150 words
100–150 words
UPLOADS:
FAQ: 1. What file formats are accepted? We accept PDF, PNG, and JPEG/JPG files only. No Google Drive links, screenshots, or HEIC files; 2. How clear do my documents need to be? All documents must be clean, clear, and easy to read with no glare, shadows, or cropped edges; Unreadable files = incomplete application; 3. What are the recommended scanning settings? To keep files small but readable: 150–200 DPI for text-only documents; 200–300 DPI for documents with images/signatures; Use Black & White or Grayscale for text; Use Color only when necessary; Aim to keep files 200 KB–3 MB; 8. Will incomplete applications be reviewed by the selection committee? No. All required fields and documents must be completed and uploaded for your application to be considered.
If no acceptance letter is issued, upload written program requirements and proof of your application or program eligibility.
We encourage you to write authentically, thoughtfully, and in your own voice.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT upload tax returns, tax documents, W-2s, or any documents containing sensitive personal or financial information. They will not be accepted and your application will be rejected.
Winners
The winner(s), their families, and their school counselors will be invited to the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce General Assembly on April 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM at a location shared in March. Winner(s) will be recognized publicly, photographed, and may be featured in the Osprey Observer, on the Chamber website, and on Chamber social media.
Agreement and Signature
By submitting this application, you certify that all information is accurate to the best of your knowledge and that you meet the eligibility criteria for this scholarship.
Parent's Full Name Signature
A parent or legal guardian must sign this form by typing his or her full name.
Applicant Full Name Signature
Typing your full name serves as your digital signature on this form.