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Taco Bell Foundation awards $10M in scholarships

Ethan Chu is a passionate storyteller who is currently studying film production at Chapman University. He was awarded a $25,000 Live Más Scholarship and hopes his continued education in filmmaking will allow him to share transformative stories to unite people. Photo: Taco Bell Foundation

April 29, 2024

The Taco Bell Foundation has awarded $10 million in Live Más Scholarships, supporting more than 1,000 students nationwide. Funds were split between Taco Bell fans ($7 million) and restaurant team members ($3 million), with scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, according to a press release.

The unique scholarship program focuses on passion and aspirations, requiring applicants to submit two-minute videos instead of traditional transcripts and essays. This year's recipients include students pursuing various interests at community colleges, vocational schools and traditional four-year institutions.

"The Live Más Scholarship cultivates a passionate community of diverse individuals united by their shared commitment to breaking down barriers for the causes they believe in," Jennifer Bradbury, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation, said in the release. "The unwavering passion exhibited by these students never ceases to amaze us. We provide them with pathways to access new opportunities and resources, empowering them to create the change they envision."

Funding for fan scholarships comes entirely from customer donations through the Taco Bell Foundation's Round Up program, averaging 44 cents per contribution. Team member scholarships are funded by Taco Bell Corp. and franchisees.

The 2024 scholarship recipients represent a wide range of passions, including social justice, creative arts and entrepreneurship.