• by Teresa Buyikian , November 1, 2023

The Taco Bell Foundation today announced the launch of its ninth annual Live Más Scholarship program, which will award up to $10 million to applicants to pursue “their passion and ignite change in their community,” according to the company.

Both customers and Taco Bell team members ages 16 to 26 are encouraged to apply for the $5,000, $10,000 or $25,000 individual scholarships through Jan. 3.

Applicants need to produce a two-minute video to explain how the award will help them achieve “the positive impact they aspire to create in the world.” $3 million will be set aside specifically for Taco Bell employees who have been with the company for more than 30 days.

The Live Más Scholarship differs from traditional scholarships in that it does not consider grades or test scores as criteria for entry. Winners may use the funds for multiple educational paths, including community colleges and trade schools, as well as creative arts, social justice, medicine, education and entrepreneurship, among others. Winners also receive more than a check; they gain access to career development opportunities, professional connections and a nationwide mentorship network.

"This program … has transformed into something far beyond your run-of-the-mill scholarship," said Jennifer Bradbury, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation in the release. "There is nothing more fulfilling than watching scholars blow us away year after year with their creativity and drive.”

To help promote the scholarships, Taco Bell’s Coin Drop in-app game will return on Giving Tuesday (Nov. 28) through Dec. 11.  A digital "coin" will appear when customers opt to round up their check total to the nearest dollar in the Taco Bell app while ordering, providing the opportunity to donate and possibly win free food at the same time.

Over the past eight years, 2,731 winners have received over $39 million in scholarships from the Live Más program, a division of the 501c3 Taco Bell Foundation, which is a public charity devoted to educating and inspiring youth to become future leaders.