The recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month has grown significantly in recent years. Now more than ever, communities and organisations are focused on ensuring their practices and policies are inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ+ individuals – and are increasingly discovering that fostering such environments can lead to a more engaged and innovative workforce.

The next generation of leaders is far more attuned to the importance of diversity and inclusion than their predecessors. Students who are looking to apply to universities not only understand the importance of LGBTQ+ rights but are also demanding that these values be reflected in the institutions they choose to attend.

And business schools are recognising more and more that not only do they need to engage in specific outreach for LGBTQ+ applicants, but they need to reassure students that their campuses are safe, inclusive environments. In fact, in the past decade the number of business schools that have increased their specific outreach to LGBTQ+ communities grew from 26% in 2014, to 45% in 2023, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)’s Application Trends survey.

And, as the focus on LGBTQ+ inclusiveness has grown both in society and in the institutions charged with shaping the next generation of leaders, so too has the access to funding for those aspiring to make a difference in this space.

Scholarships, fellowships, and other financial awards have long been established as ways of enabling the most ambitious, promising, and deserving students to access higher education. If you are passionate about LGBTQ+ rights and have a track record in advocacy, there are plenty of options to secure scholarships and an education to help you on your way.

So, this Pride Month, here at BlueSky Thinking, we’ve scoured the globe (digitally) to find 15 of the very best…

Corporate partner offerings…

• Institution: Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA)
• Scholarship: Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA)
• Programme: MBA

The ROMBA Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity dedicated to fostering the development of LGBTQ+ business leaders. Established in collaboration with prominent business school programs, this scholarship aims to support and empower LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing their MBA education.

Recipients of the ROMBA Scholarship receive substantial financial support, with each fellow being awarded a minimum of $20,000. Additionally, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development programming, including a retreat to kick off the fellowship. Furthermore, scholars benefit from access to a broader ROMBA conference, where they can engage with industry leaders, participate in workshops and panel discussions, and connect with fellow LGBTQ+ professionals.

The ROMBA Scholarship is highly regarded within the business school community, with prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, NYU Stern, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Oxford Saïd Business School among those offering the fellowship.

• Institution: Point Foundation
• Scholarship: Point Scholarship
• Programme: Various Graduate Business Programmes

The Point Scholarship is the flagship programme of the Point Foundation, aimed at empowering promising LGBTQ+ students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential. Each scholar receives financial support that can cover tuition, housing, books, and other educational expenses. Additionally, scholars gain access to a robust network of professional development opportunities, including leadership training, mentorship from successful LGBTQ+ professionals, and the annual Leadership Conference.

Scholars are selected based on their academic achievements, leadership qualities, community involvement, and financial need. The Point Foundation partners with prestigious institutions such as Stanford Graduate School of Business, Columbia Business School, Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and IE Business School.

• Institution: Pride Foundation
• Scholarship: Pride Foundation Scholarship
• Programme: MBA

The Pride Foundation Scholarship is a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ support in higher education, providing vital financial assistance and fostering inclusive learning environments. Founded with the mission of advancing equality for the LGBTQ+ community, this scholarship empowers individuals to pursue their academic and professional goals without barriers.

Recipients of the Pride Foundation Scholarship receive financial support to pursue various educational programs, including MBA studies. Each scholarship is tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of the recipient, ensuring that LGBTQ+ students have the resources they need to thrive academically and professionally. Participating business schools may include prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, NYU Stern, MIT Sloan School of Management, Oxford Saïd Business School, and others.

In the North America…

• Institution: Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
• Scholarship: PRISM Fellowship
• Programme: MBA

The PRISM Fellowship is an initiative by the Wharton School to support and develop the next generation of LGBTQ+ business leaders. Each Fellow receives full tuition funding for their MBA programme, along with exclusive access to Wharton’s robust leadership and professional development resources. This includes participation in the Wharton Leadership Program and various networking opportunities with industry leaders and alumni.

Fellows are also integrated into the Wharton LGBTQ+ community through PRISM, Wharton’s LGBTQ+ affinity group, which provides additional support, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in events and initiatives that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and leadership in business. The PRISM Fellowship aims to empower Fellows to make a significant impact in their professional fields and the broader LGBTQ+ community.

• Institution: Yale School of Management
• Scholarship: Gamme Mu Scholarship
• Programme: MBA

The Gamma Mu Scholarship at the Yale School of Management is designed to support and develop the next generation of LGBTQ+ business leaders. Each Scholar receives significant financial assistance, which can include full or partial tuition coverage for the MBA programme. Scholars also gain access to leadership development opportunities including specialised workshops, mentorship from accomplished LGBTQ+ professionals, and participation in exclusive networking events.

Additionally, Gamma Mu Scholars are integrated into Yale’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, benefiting from the support and resources of the Yale SOM LGBTQ+ affinity group. This includes engaging in events that foster inclusion and leadership within the business sector. The Gamma Mu Scholarship aims to empower Scholars to make a meaningful impact in their professional careers and the broader LGBTQ+ community.

• Institution: Darden School of Business, University of Virginia
• Scholarship: LGBTQ+ Scholarship Fund
• Programme: MBA

The LGBTQ+ Scholarship Fund at the Darden School of Business is dedicated to supporting and developing the next generation of LGBTQ+ business leaders. Each recipient of the scholarship receives financial assistance that significantly contributes to their MBA tuition and related expenses. Additionally, scholars are provided with access to exclusive leadership programming, which includes workshops, mentorship opportunities, and specialised training sessions designed to enhance their leadership skills.

Scholars also benefit from integration into Darden’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, gaining access to a supportive network and numerous LGBTQ+ business events. The Darden LGBTQ+ Scholarship Fund aims to empower scholars to make impactful contributions to the business world and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in their professional and personal lives.

• Institution: Kelley School of Business, Indiana University Bloomington
• Scholarship: Ron Sukamto Scholarship for Diversity and Inclusion
• Programme: MBA

The Ron Sukamto Scholarship for Diversity and Inclusion at the Kelley School of Business is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the business community. Established in honour of Ron Sukamto’s commitment to equity and excellence, this scholarship aims to support emerging leaders who champion diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Recipients of the Ron Sukamto Scholarship receive substantial financial support, enabling them to pursue their MBA studies at the Kelley School of Business. In addition to the financial award, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities tailored to enhance their skills in driving diversity and inclusion efforts.

• Institution: International Masters Program for Managers (IMPM)
• Scholarship: IMPM Leadership Award Scholarship
• Programme: IMPM

The IMPM Leadership Award Scholarship is a prestigious accolade offered through the International Masters Program for Managers (IMPM), aimed at recognising and nurturing exceptional leadership potential among aspiring business professionals. This scholarship serves as a testament to IMPM’s commitment to developing visionary leaders capable of navigating complex global challenges with integrity and innovation.

Recipients of the IMPM Leadership Award Scholarship receive not only financial support but also access to exclusive leadership development opportunities tailored to enhance their skills and capabilities as future business leaders. With a focus on fostering a global mindset and a deep understanding of diverse cultural perspectives, the IMPM programme equips scholars with the tools and insights needed to excel in today’s interconnected business landscape.

In Europe…

• Institution: Imperial College Business School
• Scholarship: Imperial College Business School LGBTQ+ Scholarship
• Programme: MBA or Business Programmes

The Imperial College Business School LGBTQ+ Scholarship is a significant initiative aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion within the business community. Founded on the principle of promoting LGBTQ+ representation and leadership in business, this scholarship reflects Imperial College Business School’s commitment to nurturing talent from all backgrounds.

Recipients of the Imperial College Business School LGBTQ+ Scholarship receive financial support to pursue their MBA or other business programmes at one of the world’s leading institutions. In addition to the financial award, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities designed to enhance their skills and empower them to become future leaders in their respective fields.

• Institution: ESMT Berlin
• Scholarship: ESMT Rainbow Scholarship
• Programme: MBA or Business Programmes

The ESMT Rainbow Scholarship is a significant initiative established by ESMT Berlin to promote diversity and inclusion within the business community. Rooted in the belief that diversity drives innovation and success, this scholarship is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing their MBA or other business programmes at ESMT.

Recipients of the ESMT Rainbow Scholarship receive financial assistance to pursue their academic and professional goals at one of Europe’s leading business schools. Beyond the financial support, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities, equipping them with the skills and confidence to become impactful leaders in their chosen fields.

• Institution: INSEAD Business School
• Scholarship: INSEAD Emmanuel Goldstein MBA’00D Endowed Scholarship for Diversity and Inclusion
• Programme: MBA

The INSEAD Emmanuel Goldstein MBA’00D Endowed Scholarship for Diversity and Inclusion is a cornerstone of INSEAD Business School’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Named in honour of Emmanuel Goldstein, an alum of the MBA Class of 2000D, this scholarship aims to empower and support students from LGBTQ+ backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives to the classroom.

Recipients of the INSEAD Emmanuel Goldstein MBA’00D Endowed Scholarship receive financial assistance to pursue their MBA studies at one of the world’s leading business schools. In addition to the financial support, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities, equipping them with the skills and insights necessary to become impactful leaders in today’s global business landscape.

• Institution: London Business School
• Scholarship: Out in Business Graduate Masters Scholarship
• Programme: Masters in Business Administration (MBA) or Business Masters Programmes

The Out in Business Graduate Masters Scholarship at London Business School is a pioneering initiative dedicated to supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ students pursuing advanced business degrees. Designed to foster diversity, inclusion, and leadership within the business community, this scholarship reflects London Business School’s commitment to creating an environment where all individuals can thrive.

Recipients of the Out in Business Graduate Masters Scholarship receive financial assistance to pursue their MBA or other business masters programmes at one of the world’s leading business schools. In addition to the financial support, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities, including networking events, mentorship programmes, and workshops aimed at enhancing their professional skills and advancing their careers.

• Institution: University of Edinburgh Business School
• Scholarship: Somewhere MBA LGBT+ Scholarship
• Programme: MBA

The Somewhere MBA LGBT+ Scholarship at the University of Edinburgh Business School is a testament to the School’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the business community. Established to support and empower LGBTQ+ students pursuing their MBA, this scholarship aims to create opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to excel academically and professionally.

Recipients of the Somewhere MBA LGBT+ Scholarship receive financial assistance to pursue their MBA studies at one of the leading business schools in the UK. In addition to the financial award, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities, including workshops, networking events, and mentorship programmes tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.

• Institution: Warwick Business School, University of Warwick
• Scholarship: CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY – LGBTQUA+ at Warwick Business School Scholarship
• Programme: MBA

The CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY – LGBTQUA+ Scholarship at Warwick Business School embodies the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and valued. Established to support LGBTQ+ students pursuing their MBA, this scholarship serves as a beacon of empowerment and opportunity within the business community.

Recipients of the CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY – LGBTQUA+ Scholarship receive financial support to pursue their MBA studies at one of the top-ranked business schools in the world. In addition to the financial award, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development programmes, networking opportunities, and mentorship initiatives aimed at nurturing their professional growth and success.

In Australia…

• Institution: Monash University
• Scholarship: Monash Queer Leaders Scholarship
• Programme: MBA or Business Programmes

The Monash Queer Leaders Scholarship is a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering LGBTQ+ individuals to become future leaders in the business world. Established by Monash University, this scholarship reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and leadership within the business community.

Recipients of the Monash Queer Leaders Scholarship receive financial support to pursue their MBA or other business programmes at one of Australia’s leading universities. In addition to the financial award, scholars gain access to exclusive leadership development opportunities, including mentorship programmes, networking events, and workshops designed to enhance their professional skills and prepare them for leadership roles.

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