#USA #Irvine #Education Funding #Taco Bell Foundation #Live Más Scholarship

Taco Bell Foundation's Live Más Scholarship: Empowering Dreams

The Taco Bell Foundation is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for the 11th annual Live Más Scholarship, an initiative dedicated to supporting young achievers aged 16-26. With an unprecedented total of $14.5 million available this year—marking the largest amount in the program's history—the Foundation invites innovators, dreamers, and Taco Bell enthusiasts to share their stories and chase their passions through higher education.

Celebrating Individual Journeys

The Live Más Scholarship is designed for those who defy traditional paths, emphasizing the importance of personal journeys in achieving success. For the first time, applicants can choose how to express their ambitions: through a two-minute video or a written response. This new approach fosters inclusivity and allows students to present their authentic selves, whether they prefer speaking to a camera or articulating their experiences in writing.

"Every year, we witness the incredible creativity and determination of our applicants," said Lisa Lane Cardin, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. "As career paths become less linear, we want to support a generation that defines success on their own terms."

No Limits on Passion

With the Live Más Scholarship, Taco Bell encourages students to pursue their passions—be it traditional education or alternative paths such as trade schools and creative projects. This empowering perspective is exemplified by Audrey S., a first-year college student and 2025 Live Más Scholar, who credits the scholarship with helping her balance her dream of becoming a baker while studying finance to build a business. "The Live Más Scholarship has shown me that my passion isn't a backup plan; it's the foundation of my future," she shared.

A History of Impact

Since its inception in 2015, the Live Más Scholarship has awarded over $64 million to more than 3,000 Taco Bell fans and team members across the nation. In recent years, applications for the program have surged by over 150%, reflecting its growing influence and outreach. Scholars have leveraged their grants to start businesses, launch nonprofits, engage in groundbreaking research, and showcase their talents on national stages, proving that when young individuals receive support for their dreams, they can effect real change.

A notable aspect of the scholarship is its structure: recipients can apply for renewal scholarships up to three times, allowing them to continue receiving financial support throughout their educational journeys. Over the past decade, nearly $35 million in renewal funds have been awarded, aiding students in progressing through college and into fulfilling careers.

Community-Fueled Generosity

The success of the Live Más Scholarship is made possible through the generosity of Taco Bell customers who contribute by rounding up their orders. The average donation is just 44 cents, but collectively, these small amounts result in significant funding for scholarships and opportunities that extend far beyond the restaurant counter.

The application period for the 2025 Live Más Scholarship is currently open and will continue until January 6, 2026. Recipients will be announced in late April 2026, with awards distributed in amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $25,000 per student. For more information on eligibility requirements, frequently asked questions, or to apply, please visit Taco Bell Foundation.

About Taco Bell Foundation

The Taco Bell Foundation, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) public charity, has been committed to helping young people pursue their passions since 1992. With a mission to break down barriers to education, the Foundation has reached nearly 12 million young individuals and awarded more than $231 million in grants and scholarships, focusing on education and career preparedness.