NOW OPEN Applications close June 15, 2026 — 22 days remaining to apply. Read the announcement →
Building a pipeline from classroom to career.
The Pensacola Beacon awards scholarships to Black high school and college students in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties pursuing journalism, communications, or digital media.
Each scholar receives funding for tuition, equipment, and professional development — plus a mentored byline in The Beacon. This isn't just financial support. It's a launchpad into the industry.
Our scholarship program is funded by reader donations, corporate sponsors, and grant partnerships. Every dollar that supports The Beacon directly fuels the next generation of Black media creators.
Who's Eligible
Our scholarships are designed for students in the Gulf Coast region who are committed to careers in media and journalism.
Students
Black high school seniors and college students in Escambia or Santa Rosa County.
Fields of Study
Pursuing journalism, communications, digital media, film, or related fields.
Enrolled At
Escambia County public schools, Pensacola State College, or the University of West Florida.
Community Connection
Demonstrate financial need and connection to the Gulf Coast community.
What Scholars Receive
More than a check. A launchpad into media careers.
Applications are open. Deadline June 15, 2026.
The Pensacola Beacon Media Scholarship is accepting applications from Black students in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties pursuing journalism, communications, or digital media. Award: $2,000–$2,500 plus a mentored byline.
Read Full Application Guide →Why This Matters
Black journalists represent just 7% of newsroom staff nationally. The Gulf Coast has among the lowest concentrations of Black-owned news outlets in the country. Local stories go untold. Perspectives go unheard. Young people with talent and ambition see no clear path into the industry.
These scholarships create a pipeline from classroom to career. They connect students to mentors, give them real publishing experience, and remove the financial barriers that stop talented young journalists before they start.
When you support The Pensacola Beacon — through donations, sponsorships, or simply reading and sharing our stories — you're investing in the people who will carry Black storytelling forward on the Gulf Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline?
June 15, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered. Read the full application guide and apply now.
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
We plan to award 12–15 scholarships per year, depending on funding. Each award ranges from $2,000 to $2,500.
Can I apply if I'm not in Escambia County?
Currently, scholarships are limited to students in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. We hope to expand to the wider Gulf Coast region in future years.
Is this only for college students?
No. Both high school seniors and college students are eligible. If you're a high school senior planning to study journalism, communications, or digital media, we encourage you to apply.
How is the scholarship funded?
Through reader donations, corporate sponsors, and grant partnerships. Every dollar that supports The Beacon directly funds scholarships and storytelling.
I'm a business or organization. Can I sponsor a scholarship?
Yes. Named scholarship sponsorships are available. Contact us at the-pensacola-beacon@polsia.app to discuss partnership opportunities.
Every scholarship is a story waiting to be told.
Help us fund the next generation of Black media creators on the Gulf Coast.