The Alliance Scholars Program

Minority-Scholars Program Overview & Process

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance selects up to ten Minority and Women Business Leaders (Scholars), headquartered in Broward County, per year to strengthen its diverse business leadership for economic development. The unique 3-year program allows qualified leaders full membership in the Alliance at a subsidized and escalating rate.

Eligibility Criteria:

The Scholarship program is designed to identify minority and women-owned businesses that have already established themselves as companies with staying power but which need to take the next step into the Broward business community.

The Alliance selects up to ten (10) qualified Minority and Women Business Leaders to join its Scholars Program.  

• Certified Minority/Woman Business Enterprise.

• Primary place of business is located in Broward County

• Properly licensed to operate a business in Broward County.

• Business must have been in operation for three (2) years or more

• Minimum of 3-5 employees.

We are looking for companies with at least 3-5 employees and who have been in operation for at least two years. Preference is given to businesses in the County’s targeted industries: 

1. Advanced Materials and High-Tech Manufacturing 

2. Alternative Energy and Renewable Resources 

3. Aviation / Aerospace 

4. Global Business Services 

5. Global Media and Production 

6. Headquarters and Management Operations 

7. Human Resources and Higher Education 

8. International Trade and Logistics 

9. Life Sciences 

10. Marine Industries 

Commitment:

It is a 3-year commitment in which the company joins the Alliance at the Entrepreneur Council level ($2,500) and agrees to the terms of the scholarship. The first year is free and the two subsequent years the company agrees to pay a percentage of the membership until the 4th year when it is the full price. 

Year 1  - Full scholarship

Year 2 - 75% discount. $625

Year 3 – 40% discount. $1500

Year 4 – Full membership. $2,500, Entrepreneur Council

Payments can be made annually or quarterly, whichever is more convenient for the company.

The company enjoys all the benefits of the Entrepreneur Council (see attached grid and meeting schedule) while at the same time understands that they must themselves get involved in the Alliance programs to maximize their benefits. Ultimately, it is up to the company to establish those strong business contacts that translate to better business opportunities.