Chronic boss
Scholarship
The Collective Presents
An educational scholarship for ambitious Students Living with
chronic conditions
The Chronic Boss Scholarship seeks to reward women pursuing their education and living with chronic diseases who have persevered and succeeded. Women who have an entrepreneurial spirit, whether that is in launching an initiative, a campaign, a startup, a blog, a club, a fundraiser, or other endeavor.
In 2025, scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $1,000 to five outstanding Chronic Bosses.
Click below to begin your application.
Application deadline: October 20, 2025 at 5 PM ET.
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Scholarship terms and conditions
Meet Past winners
Since its inception in 2022, The Chronic Boss Scholarship has received over 1,400 applications and awarded $31,000 to 31 incredible women changing our world.
"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the scholarship I have been awarded for being an entrepreneur with an autoimmune disease. As someone who has faced numerous challenges due to my health condition, this recognition means the world to me and has given me a renewed sense of motivation and validation. This scholarship is a testament to the fact that my hard work and determination have not gone unnoticed, and it serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward no matter what obstacles come my way."
Shannon
2023 Scholarship winner
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
Who is eligible to apply for the Chronic Boss Scholarship?
Be a woman or woman-identifying individual
Be 18 years of age or older
Be a legal resident of the United States
Be currently enrolled in an accredited school, college, or university, community college, trade school, vocational program, or certification program (e.g., for hairstyling, cosmetology, welding, massage therapy, esthetics, etc.)
Be living with a chronic condition
Have already started a business, advocacy project, creative initiative, nonprofit, or club
FAQ
We define chronic illness broadly including (but not limited to) autoimmune diseases, neurological conditions, rare diseases, mental health disorders, invisible illnesses, and more. If you live with a long-term health condition that impacts your life, you're welcome to apply.
What do you mean by “chronic chronic condition”?
Yes. At this time, applicants must be enrolled in a college or university, community college, trade school, vocational program, or certification program (e.g., for hairstyling, cosmetology, welding, massage therapy, esthetics, etc.)
Is this scholarship only for students?
Five winners will each receive a $1,000 unrestricted grant.
How much is the scholarship award?
Five winners will each receive a $1,000 unrestricted grant.
How much is the scholarship award?
How much is the scholarship award?
The funds are awarded as an unrestricted grant, which means you can use them however you choose — for tuition, medical bills, assistive tools, self-care, building your business, or anything that supports your journey.
Yes. Unrestricted grants may be considered taxable income under U.S. law. Recipients are responsible for reporting the scholarship on their taxes if required. You will be asked to complete a W-9 form if selected.
Are there tax implications?
- A compelling personal story about living with chronic illness
- Clear evidence of entrepreneurial spirit or leadership
- Strong communication and purpose
What makes a strong application?
- Your contact and eligibility details
- A 1–2 minute video introduction
- Short written responses about your story, your impact, and your project
- Acknowledgment of our Terms & Conditions
What is required to apply?
All applications must be submitted by October 20, 2025 at 5 PM ET.
When is the application deadline?
When will winners be announced?
Only winning applicants’ stories may be shared publicly, and only with your explicit consent as agreed to in the Terms & Conditions.
Will my application be shared publicly?
I still have questions. Who can I contact?
