The Cider Is For Everyone scholarship is designed to support people from historically marginalized groups in North America in gaining access to professional development and networking opportunities in the cider industry. The goal is to increase the accessibility of cider education to jump-start the careers of these cider professionals. Many scholars have gone on to share their knowledge with the cider industry as well, as CiderCon® speakers and more.
Scholarship recipients receive:
Registration to CiderCon® 2025 in Chicago, Illinois, February 3-7 (including travel and lodging)
Level 1 Certified Cider Guide training and certification exam
Two Certified Pommelier sensory webinars
The Certified Pommelier Study Guide
Registration for the Certified Pommelier Exam
After passing the Certified Pommelier Exam, scholars may be eligible for a travel stipend to pursue cider judging opportunities
This scholarship is part of a broader effort by the ACA to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion for the cider industry. In 2019 the ACA launched the Antiracism, Equity and Inclusion committee which recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion as an important and necessary part of present and future successes of the cider industry. This committee structures its work around a belief that existing structures of power, privilege and discrimination must be actively questioned and evaluated in order to create equitable opportunities in an environment that embraces and values our differences. They strive to create events, opportunities and organizational policies that embody these values, and to continue evaluating these practices for sustained growth and improvement.
Applicant Information
Thank you for your interest in our Cider is For Everyone Scholarship for CiderCon® 2025! This scholarship is designed to foster professional pathways for early cider professionals from historically marginalized communities that are currently underrepresented in the Cider Industry. CiderCon® 2025 is taking place February 4-7 in Chicago, Illinois. The scholarship covers hotel, airfare (or travel expenses) and conference registration. Additionally, recipients will be offered training and exams for the Certified Cider Professional Program's Certified Cider Guide and Certified Pommelier programs. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until August 30, 2024.
Donate to the Cider is for Everyone Scholarship Fund
The Cider is for Everyone Scholarship depends on the support of sponsorships and donations. These funds are used exclusively to cover the costs associated with providing the recipients with the benefits set out in the scholarship. We invite you to donate at any level to help us continue to provide the Cider is for Everyone Scholarship for years to come.
Are you a business interested in sponsoring the Cider is for Everyone Scholarship? Please reach out to American Cider Association CEO Michelle McGrath at michelle@ciderassociation.org.