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AIA26 Emerging Professionals Grant

Complimentary conference registration | Accepting applications: February 9, 2026 to March 1, 2026

AIA founded this grant to provide more opportunities to emerging and early career professionals who are passionate about change in the architecture profession and bring new perspectives to business, workplace health, technology, and climate action. This grant provides emerging professionals an opportunity to attend the annual conference and gain access to career resources, the latest trends in the building industry, networking opportunities, and potential employment opportunities.  

This opportunity is ideal for emerging professionals eager to shape the future of architecture – those committed to advancing innovation in business, equity, workplace culture, technology, and climate action. The grant supports attendance at the 2026 AIA Conference on Architecture and Design in San Diego (June 10–13, 2026), creating space to connect and learn.  

Applications, supported through the Architects Foundation, are due by Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 11:59pm ET. Apply today!

Please contact Kirsten Swanson at kirstenswanson@aia.org for any questions.

This grant provides recipients with the following benefits: 

  • 100% complimentary registration to attend AIA’26  – a value up to $1,149
  • Meet and greet with other grant winners and AIA leaders 
  • Receipt and use of a grant to attend the Conference on Architecture and Design is one-time only. Grants will not be awarded to past grant winners.
  • Serve as an ambassador for the emerging professional audience and the Next Gen Lounge at conference via social media channels (personal and/or AIA’s official channels).   
  • Gain access to attend select events, meet other leaders, and receive dedicated support to navigate the Conference. 
  • Gain access to critical leadership resources, 1:1 career coaching, networking, and rich learning opportunities. 
  • Must be an Emerging Professional (EP). An Emerging Professional is defined by the AIA as professionals who have completed their academic studies up to the point of licensure or up to 10 years after completion of their academic studies. 
  • Must be an Associate AIA member in good standing. 
  • Must not be a current AIA staff member or hold a current volunteer position with AIA National. 

Applicants will need to submit: 

  • A statement stating intent and interest in or goals for attending the conference, and explanation of financial need. 
  • A statement describing path to licensure and/or career journey. Include personal background, career path, work and/or volunteer experience, service work, etc. (500 words max) 
  • A professional resume  

Application and Selection Timeline:

  • Application period: February 9 – March 1  
  • Grant recipient selection: March 26 – 30  
  • Grant recipients notified: April 1 
Apply today