SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) has announced the launch of the Illinois Retail Scholarship Challenge, which encourages high school seniors to develop creative, practical solutions to real business challenges facing the retail sector, with teams competing for scholarships of up to $60,000. Supported by grant funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the contest is designed to spark innovation, engage students, and strengthen the retail industry, which is the state’s largest private-sector employer, generating $112 billion in economic activity annually.
The first competition of its kind in Illinois, the scholarship challenge is open to all Illinois high school seniors with a passion for innovation, problem-solving, and making an impact. Participating students will work together in teams of two to four people to develop a solution to a real-world retail challenge in collaboration with leading retail partners, including Roundy’s/Mariano’s and Walgreens. A handful of teams will earn the chance to present their pitch to leaders representing participating retailers, with top teams earning up to $60,000 in scholarship funds.
Key competition themes include:
- Sustainable Retail Practices
- E-commerce Innovation
- Enhancing Customer Experience
- Supply Chain Optimization
- Technology in Retail
“As Illinois’ largest private-sector employer, retail is one of the most dynamic and innovative industries in our economy, and supporting the next generation of leaders is essential to our future,” said Rob Karr, president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association. “The Illinois Retail Scholarship Challenge gives young people a platform to shape the future of retail while helping companies tackle real issues. It’s an investment in talent and the long-term vitality of our industry, and we are honored to partner with leading Illinois retailers Roundy’s/Mariano’s and Walgreens to launch this important initiative.”
All students are asked to notify IRMA of their intention to participate prior to submitting their proposals by completing the form available here: www.irma.org/scholarship-intent-to-participate. The submission period is now open, and all proposals are due by March 30, 2026. To learn more about the Illinois Retail Scholarship Challenge, view the official rules, and submit a proposal, visit IRMA’s website.
About the Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA)
One of the largest state retail organizations in the United States, IRMA serves as the voice of retail and the business community in state government. Founded in 1957, IRMA represents more than 23,000 stores of all sizes and merchandise lines. From the nation’s largest retailers to independent businesses in every corner of the state, merchants count on IRMA to fight for the best possible environment in which to do business in Illinois. For more information, visit https://irma.org.