Atlantic City Invests in the Future: $3 Million Scholarship Program Empowers Residents to Dream Bigger

Atlantic City isn't just a place to vacation, it's a city where futures are built. Through a bold, three-year, $3 million commitment led by Mayor Marty Small, Sr., the city is changing the trajectory for students and families by making higher education and career training more accessible than ever before.

Now in its third and final year, the Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Scholarship Program awarded 113 scholarships of up to $10,000 each to Atlantic City residents in 2025. That’s more than the expected 100 scholarships typically granted per year, thanks to remaining funds. The scholarships are funded through the American Rescue Plan under the Addressing Educational Disparity category.

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#LiveinAC: A City That Invests in Its Youth

This initiative sends a powerful message to Atlantic City families: your city sees you, believes in you, and is investing in your success. For residents, especially those balancing financial challenges, this kind of support makes the dream of college or trade school not only imaginable but attainable. It also makes Atlantic City a desirable place to raise a family, where education isn’t just encouraged, it’s funded.

The scholarships are open to all Atlantic City residents, regardless of which high school they currently attend or previously attended. This inclusive approach ensures the program reaches students across the city, from recent high school grads and current college students to those pursuing advanced degrees and trade certifications.

#WorkinAC: Building the Talent Pipeline

This year’s breakdown reflects a broad investment in Atlantic City’s growing talent pool:

• 44 scholarships for high school graduates entering college
• 52 scholarships for current college students advancing to sophomore, junior, or senior year
• 11 scholarships for graduate students pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate
• 6 scholarships for students entering trade school

By supporting not only traditional four-year college pathways but also trade programs and advanced degrees, the city is laying the groundwork for a diverse and skilled workforce that meets the demands of today’s economy. Several past scholarship recipients have already returned to work in Atlantic City, contributing their talents to the local government and business community.

#InvestinAC: Community-Funded, Future-Focused

This scholarship program represents more than a generous giveaway. It’s a strategic investment in long-term prosperity. When residents are equipped with education and job training, they are more likely to stay in the city, launch businesses, purchase homes, and give back to their community. That kind of growth doesn’t just benefit individuals, it uplifts entire neighborhoods.

With nearly 300 applications submitted this year, the program's rising popularity is proof that Atlantic City residents are eager for opportunity. The selection committee, composed of trusted local leaders, carefully reviews applications and essays to ensure that scholarships go to those most ready to make an impact.

As Mayor Small noted, while this marks the final year of the original three-year commitment, efforts are already underway to ensure the program continues. In Atlantic City, investing in the next generation isn’t a short-term promise. It’s a long-term plan.

#LiveinAC | #WorkinAC | #InvestinAC | #GreatDayAtlanticCity

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