Key Points:
- Roc Nation, founded by Jay-Z, announced a $300 million scholarship initiative to support underprivileged students.
- Scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $15,000, with a focus on children from families earning under 250% of the federal poverty level.
- Roc Nation will host events in Philadelphia from June 10-21 to promote the program, including informational sessions
Roc Nation, the entertainment company founded by Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, has announced a $300 million scholarship initiative to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged students in the Philadelphia area.
This ambitious program was unveiled on June 7 and targets children from Kindergarten through Grade 12, offering financial assistance to attend prestigious private schools and various educational institutions across the city.
Jay-Z’s Roc Nation empowers students
Scholarship amounts will vary based on the student’s educational level. Half-day kindergarteners will receive $2,500, K-8th graders will get $5,000, high schoolers can obtain $10,000, and special needs children are eligible for $15,000.
To qualify, a student’s family income must not exceed 250 percent of the federal poverty level, currently set at $75,000 for a family of four. From June 10 to June 21, Roc Nation will host a series of events across Philadelphia to promote the program, including informational sessions about the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS).
“We have enjoyed such a special connection with Philadelphians, so we’ve made it our mission to invest in the long-term success of the city’s changemakers,” said Dania Diaz, Roc Nation’s Managing Director of Philanthropy. “Impact starts with the students and with awareness. We want to empower the youth and families with the knowledge to pursue their scholastic dreams, make their voices heard, and become the leaders of tomorrow.”
Jay-Z’s expanding influence and philanthropy
Since its inception in 2008 under Jay-Z’s leadership, Roc Nation has evolved into a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, representing top recording artists, producers, and songwriters. Jay-Z’s business acumen has seen his net worth surge by $1.3 billion in the past year, solidifying his status as one of the world’s wealthiest Black billionaires.
In another significant move, Jay-Z’s investment firm, Marcy Venture Partners, is in advanced discussions to merge with Pendulum Holdings’ investment division. This merger could create an entity managing over $1 billion in assets, marking a major milestone for Marcy Ventures.
Empowering the next generation
Roc Nation’s scholarship fund represents a significant investment in the future of Philadelphia’s youth. By providing financial support and educational opportunities, Jay-Z and his team are fostering the next generation of leaders, ensuring that economic barriers do not hinder their potential to succeed and make a difference in their communities.
