The AVIXA Foundation has opened applications for the 2026 Michael Vergauwen Scholarship, with ten students set to receive $2,500 grants to support studies connected to the professional audiovisual industry.

Applications are open until 30 June 2026, with the scholarship available to current and future students enrolled in vocational, undergraduate or graduate programs related to the AV, creative and integrated experience sectors.

The scholarship honours the legacy of Michael Vergauwen, the late chief operating officer of FORTÉ and long-time AVIXA board member, while supporting emerging professionals pursuing careers in AV and creative technology industries.

“The AVIXA Foundation exists to create accessible and viable career pathways into the AV industry,” AVIXA chief global officer and AVIXA Foundation executive director Sarah Joyce says.

“The Michael Vergauwen Scholarship supports emerging professionals as they gain the skills and education needed to build lasting careers in AV, while growing our industry’s workforce.”

Since launching its scholarship program, the AVIXA Foundation has awarded more than $800,000 to nearly 500 students and emerging professionals, with recipients progressing into roles across companies including iHeartMedia, Meta and Q-SYS.

To be eligible, applicants must be at least 16 years old and demonstrate an interest in an AV-related career through coursework, employment, volunteer activities or extracurricular involvement.

Full-time employees already working in the AV industry and previous scholarship recipients are not eligible, although part-time workers, apprentices, contractors and interns may still apply.

Applications will be assessed by a panel of industry leaders and volunteers, who will review academic performance and achievements in the context of each applicant’s available opportunities and resources.