Next Dragon Grant Application for Texas State University Students

The Next Dragon Grant, established by the Angela Mears Foundation, empowers and supports outstanding individuals pursuing professional development in creative fields. Recipients of this grant will receive up to $1,500 in financial support and access to personalized mentorship to help them take the next step in their creative journey. Funds must be used to support activities such as internships, industry events, certifications, or creative projects. Please note that the grant cannot be used to fund the purchase of merchandise, stock, advertising, or marketing for personal brand promotion.

Applications are due by March 1, 2025. Recipients will be notified by June 2025.

Please note this application is only applicable to students from Texas State University
Checklist:

Before submitting, ensure you have included the following:
- Completed all required fields in the application form
- Uploaded your 2025-26 Student Aid Report (SAR) or equivalent documentation
- Provided a Professional Development and Mentorship Proposal
- Listed Reference Information
- Attached any additional work samples (optional)
- Included an optional video submission link (optional)
Evaluation Criteria:
- Professional Development Proposal: 20%
- Financial Need: 30%
- Creative Background and Journey: 20%
- Reference: 10%
- Mentor fit: 20%
Section 1

Personal Information
Name*

First NameLast Name
Date of Birth*

MonthDayYear
Date
Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code
Phone Number*
Please enter a valid phone number.
Email*
example@example.com
Section 2

Academic Background
Current Academic Institution (if applicable)
Degree Program
Field of Study
Expected Graduation Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Notable Academic Achievements or Relevant Courses (optional)
Section 3

Professional Experience
Current Employer or Future Secured Internship (if applicable)
Job Title
Field of Work
Brief Description of Role
Previous Work Experience (if applicable)
Section 4

Financial Need Documentation
Upload your 2025-26 Student Aid Report (SAR) or other documentation, such as a financial aid award letter, demonstrating financial need.*

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Section 5

Creative Background
Tell Us About Your Journey in Your Creative Field (What inspired you to pursue this field? Share key milestones, challenges, or successes in your journey so far.)*
What Sets You Apart as a Creative Individual? (Describe unique qualities, experiences, or perspectives you bring to your field.)*
What Impact Do You Hope to Make Through Your Work? (How will your contributions influence your community, industry, or audience?) (150-300 characters)*

0/300
Section 6

Professional Development and Mentorship Proposal
Describe Your Professional Goals (What do you hope to achieve in your creative field? Be specific about your aspirations and career direction.) (200-400 characters)*

0/400
How Will This Grant Support Your Goals? (Describe how you intend to use the grant funds. Will you attend an industry event, complete a project, or support an internship? Include a detailed plan with specifics like budgets or timelines.)*
What Mentorship Would Benefit You Most?(What type of guidance, feedback, or networking would help you achieve your goals? Describe the expertise or connections you hope a mentor can provide.)*
Where Do You Want to Focus Your Development?(Choose a skill or area of expertise in the marketing or creative field that you would like to master. How would developing this skill enhance your confidence and help you achieve your goals?)*
Section 7

Intro Video Submission (optional)
Provide a link to a short (1-2 minute) video introducing yourself and explaining your goals (optional)
Section 8

Additional Work Samples (Optional)
Upload up to 3 work samples relevant to your creative field or proposal

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Section 9

Personal Reference Information
Reference Name*

First NameLast Name
Relationship to Applicant*
Reference's Phone Number*
Please enter a valid phone number.
Reference's Email*
example@example.com
How does this person know you and your work?*
Section 10

Acknowledgments and Consent
The Angela Mears Foundation values the impact of its grants and mentorship programs. As a recipient of the Next Dragon Grant, would you be open to sharing updates on your progress, creative work, or experiences for use in future marketing and promotional materials, such as testimonials or promotional content? If yes, you may be asked to provide periodic updates on how the grant has impacted your career, including sharing creative work or participating in foundation events.*

YesNo
Should be Empty:

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