The CarMax-Rick Sharp Entrepreneur Scholarship was established in 2013 by CarMax in honor of its founder and retired board chairman, Rick Sharp.  The purpose of the scholarship fund is to recognize Mr. Sharp's extraordinary contributions to the company and his philanthropic efforts in the Richmond-Metro area by supporting the growth and development of future entrepreneurs of the region.  Annual scholarship(s) will be awarded on a competitive basis to students who demonstrate financial need, a commitment to academics, leadership capabilities and an entrepreneurial spirit.  Qualified applicants must be graduating seniors of a public or private high school in the Cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell and the surrounding counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover and Henrico and plan to attend an accredited 2-year or 4-year community college, college or university in the United States. 

Award Amount

$2,000

Renew or Reapply?

Deadline

March 7, 2023

Eligibility

An eligible applicant must be a graduating senior of a public or private high school in the Cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell or the surrounding counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover or Henrico.

An eligible student must demonstrate financial need to attend an institution of higher learning, commitment to academics, and leadership capabilities.

An eligible student must demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for innovation.

An eligible student must be a candidate for high school graduation at the end of the current academic year and plan to enroll in an accredited 2-year or 4-year college or university in the continental United States the following academic year.

Selection Criteria

Commitment to academics will be evaluated based on regular attendance, grade point average and SAT scores.

Leadership capabilities will be evaluated on the basis of the applicant’s involvement in extracurricular school activities, honors and awards, and involvement in the community through public service.

Financial need will be evaluated on the basis of the completed Student Financial Information Form and information provided in the student’s statement of financial need.

Entrepreneurial spirit will be evaluated based on the applicant's response to the personal statement and letters of recommendation.

Personal Statement Topic: How will you utilize your entrepreneurial spirit and passion for innovation to achieve your goals for the future and how will this contribution to your educational expenses make a difference?

Type of Student