$5,000 award supports a Bay Area student pursuing a career in journalism; applications due Nov. 23
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 10, 2026 – The San Francisco Press Club is pleased to announce the continuation of its expanded scholarship program for promising young journalists. It is inviting journalism students throughout the Bay Area to apply for the 2026 SF Press Club Emerging Journalist Scholarship.
The $5,000 scholarship helps offset the cost of higher education and supports an aspiring journalist’s academic and professional development during the fall 2027 semester.
“The future of journalism depends on the talent, curiosity and determination of the people entering the profession today,” said Curtis Sparrer, president of the San Francisco Press Club. “The business of journalism is under real strain, and that makes investing in emerging journalists all the more urgent. The next generation needs the resources and opportunities to develop their skills, pursue important stories and hold powerful institutions accountable. When we support these students, we’re investing in the future of journalism itself.”
Eligibility
Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at a Bay Area college or university who are pursuing a career in journalism are eligible to apply. Strong consideration will be given to students from historically marginalized communities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals and religious minorities.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following materials by Nov. 23, 2026:
- A current resume
- Two published writing samples
- A recent photograph
Applicants may also include an optional statement of financial need (150 words or fewer) describing how the scholarship would support their education and journalism career.
Submit applications using the form below:
SFPC 2026 Scholarship Application
Recipients will be notified on Nov. 30 and recognized at the San Francisco Press Club’s annual winter awards gala on Dec. 7, 2026.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The San Francisco Press Club is seeking sponsors for its 2026 scholarship program and annual winter awards gala. Sponsors help the Club honor excellence in journalism while supporting the next generation of media professionals.
For sponsorship and partnership information, please email scoop@sfpressclub.org
About the San Francisco Press Club
The San Francisco Press Club is a nonprofit organization with 501(c)3 status. It was founded in 1963 to provide a forum for the interchange of ideas and opinions between professionals in the various news and public relations media, providing an organization in which to share fellowship, promote professional competence and knowledge, encourage students entering journalism by offering scholarships, and increase public knowledge of the media through workshops and other exchanges of information.
Media Contact
Curtis Sparrer
curtis@bospar.com