Garden Club of Minneapolis Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Garden Club of Minneapolis

Overview
Since 1992 the Garden Club of Minneapolis (GCM) has distributed more than $105,000.00 in merit-based scholarships to students pursuing careers in horticulture. Minnesota residents who are working toward a degree and career in horticulture, landscaping, or a related professional field are encouraged to apply. Individual awards typically range from $1,000 to $2,000.

2025 Recipients
GCM awarded four scholarships in 2025:

- A sophomore at the University of Minnesota Crookston pursuing a B.S. in Horticulture with an emphasis on Production and Environmental Landscaping. This student is active in the Horticulture Club and serves as the houseplant manager in the campus greenhouse.

- A freshman at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, studying Plant Science on the Breeding track, with an anticipated graduation in 2027. In high school this student led the Environment Club and maintains a personal garden.

- A freshman enrolled in the Agriculture Education program at Southwest Minnesota State University, expecting to graduate in 2028. The student has participated in Floriculture Career Development Events and exhibits home garden entries at the County Fair.

- A University of Minnesota, Twin Cities student majoring in Plant Science on the Nursery and Floriculture track, planning to graduate in fall 2026. This recipient has years of experience working at a nursery, keeps a home garden and chickens, and aims to pursue a career in the nursery industry after graduating.

Eligibility and Award Conditions
1. Applicants must be residents of the State of Minnesota.
2. Applicants must be accepted to, or currently enrolled full-time at, an accredited Minnesota college or university.
3. Applicants should demonstrate a clear career focus in gardening, landscaping, or related areas that align with the interests of home gardeners.
4. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2026. A Club committee will announce the scholarship recipient(s) in April 2026.
5. Finalists may be invited for an interview at a time and place to be determined.
6. Decisions will not be influenced by financial status, age, gender, race, or religion.

Required Application Materials
1. A fully completed application form, including responses to Questions 1–4.
2. One letter of recommendation from a non-family individual who can speak to the applicant’s horticultural experience and objectives.
3. One letter of recommendation from a college instructor, advisor, or administrator familiar with the applicant.
4. The name and mailing address of the applicant’s school financial aid officer or administrator.
5. Any additional information the applicant wishes to submit (optional).

Note: Applications that are incomplete will not be considered.