FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2026
Indianapolis, Indiana — The Indiana Independent Auto Dealers Association (IIADA) is encouraging high school seniors and current students across Indiana who are pursuing careers in the automotive industry to apply for the 2026 NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarship.
The NIADA Foundation will award four $2,500 scholarships nationwide—one in each U.S. region. Indiana students are eligible under Region I (Northeast/Mid-Atlantic) and are strongly encouraged to apply before the March 31, 2026 deadline.
This scholarship supports students who are passionate about building a career in the automotive field, whether in sales, service, management, entrepreneurship, or technical repair.
Investing in the Future of Indiana’s Automotive Industry
For more than 15 years, the NIADA Foundation has awarded over $400,000 in scholarships to students entering the automotive profession. In addition to regional scholarships, the Foundation also supports students attending Northwood University and the University of Texas at Arlington.
Beyond scholarships, the NIADA Foundation provides emergency relief to members of the automotive community impacted by natural disasters and supports education and training initiatives nationwide.
“The future of Indiana’s independent auto industry depends on the next generation of talented, driven young professionals,” said Arron Stanton, Executive Director of IIADA. “We encourage students, parents, guidance counselors, and dealers across Indiana to share this opportunity and help us invest in the future of our industry.”
How to Apply
Students must submit applications directly to the NIADA Foundation no later than March 31, 2026.
Applicants are required to submit a short video answering the following questions:
- What are your long-term career goals in the automotive industry, and how will this scholarship help you achieve them? (Maximum 1 minute)
- Describe an automotive project or challenging repair or diagnostic problem you’ve worked on. What did you learn? (Maximum 2 minutes)
Students may record and review their responses before submitting. Only one submission is allowed per applicant. CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Scholarship Details
- Award Amount: $2,500
- Awards Available: Four nationwide (one per region)
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Recipients Announced: May or June 2026
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a high school senior or current/future student enrolled in an accredited automotive program (trade school, vocational school, community college, or university)
- Demonstrate strong academic achievement
- Submit an official high school transcript
- Show a clear desire to work in the automotive industry
Students, educators, and dealers interested in learning more or supporting the NIADA Foundation’s mission can visit the NIADA website for additional details.
Media Contact:
Arron Stanton
Executive Director
Indiana Independent Auto Dealers Association (IIADA)
executivedirector@indianaiada.com
www.indianaiada.com
About IIADA
The Indiana Independent Auto Dealers Association represents and supports licensed independent automobile dealers across the state of Indiana through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities. IIADA works to strengthen the independent dealer community and promote professionalism and excellence throughout the industry. Learn more online at www.indianaiada.com
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