Bill Payne Memorial Scholarship
The Angel Capital Association (ACA) proudly announces the launch of the Bill Payne Memorial Scholarship for 2025, an annual award honoring Bill Payne, widely known as the “grandfather of angel investing.” This scholarship will provide one deserving recipient with the opportunity to enroll in the comprehensive suite of Ann and Bill Payne ACA Angel University courses, culminating in the Advanced Angel Investing Certificate.
The annual scholarship will be awarded to a community ecosystem builder who is a full-time employee at one of the following types of organizations:
- Local economic development organizations or chambers of commerce
- University and regional innovation hubs, incubators, or accelerators
- Based in the United States of America
- Nonprofit community-based organizations that support local entrepreneurial ecosystem building
Eligible applicants must be based in the United States. The program content consists of eleven courses, with each course offering two hours of educational material in both live virtual and modularized on-demand formats.
“Bill Payne was a pioneering figure in angel investing, and this scholarship is a fitting tribute to his legacy,” said [Insert relevant spokesperson or leader]. “By investing in leaders who are working to strengthen their entrepreneurial ecosystems, we’re building on Bill’s vision for a thriving startup community.”
Award Application and Selection Process
An online application form for the scholarship is available through ACA’s social media channels, ACA member groups, and various ecosystem organizations. Organizations may nominate candidates, and self-nominations are also welcome. The annual application deadline is June 30th, with award selections announced by mid-August. Recipients will have one calendar year to complete the Ann and Bill Payne ACA Angel University courses.