The Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) will award five scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each for secondary, advanced, or trade school education for the 2026-2027 academic year.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit completed applications by July 10, 2026. Please review the list of eligible fields of study before beginning the application process. At the end of the form, there will be a request to attach a file up to 10MB. All submitted material must be merged into one pdf file and include the following:
- Copy of the applicant’s high school or college transcript
- 400-500 word essay
- Acceptance letter from a college, university, or trade school indicating specific field of study.
- List of extracurricular activities, academic and non-academic awards, community service contributions, and work experience. (Optional)
Essay
Submit a 400–500-word typed essay. Any submission that significantly deviates from this word count—either by being too short or too long—will be excluded from the selection process.
Select ONE of the topics below for essay submission.
♦ The North American hard maple flooring industry currently faces a significant challenge: the rapid expansion of synthetic flooring substitutes, such as vinyl and laminates. While these alternatives offer perceived convenience, they often lack the long-term durability, environmental sustainability, and health benefits of natural MFMA maple. To remain competitive, the industry must transition from traditional practices toward proactive innovation in manufacturing, marketing, and sustainability.
Question: Identify a specific challenge currently facing the hardwood flooring industry (e.g., competition from synthetics, supply chain efficiency, or sustainability perceptions). Propose a strategic solution that utilizes modern technology, improved forestry management, or creative marketing to highlight the superiority of MFMA maple.
How do you envision your chosen field of study playing a role in the modernization of the hardwood industry, and why is the preservation and advancement of natural wood products essential for a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future?
♦ Beyond elite competition, sports facilities play a vital role in community health and accessibility. High-quality, well-maintained sports flooring in public or school facilities can foster greater participation in sports and physical activity. However, many communities face barriers—such as aging infrastructure or budget constraints—that limit access to these essential spaces. The industry must find ways to ensure that the benefits of premium surfaces, such as Northern Hard Maple, are available to all athletes, regardless of their background or location.
Question: Discuss the impact that accessible, professional-grade sports flooring has on community wellness and physical activity levels. How can the sports flooring industry, in collaboration with your field of study, contribute to making high-performance sports environments more accessible and inclusive for diverse populations?
In your response, explain why the long-term durability and safety of natural wood surfaces are essential for the future of public and educational recreation spaces.
♦ Materials define the spaces we inhabit. From the historic gymnasiums of the past to the high-tech, multi-purpose community hubs of the future, Northern Hard Maple has remained a constant because of its unique sensory and functional qualities. However, as the world moves toward more "digital" and "synthetic" experiences, there is a growing need to rethink how we use natural, organic materials to create spaces that feel authentic, inspire movement, and stand the test of time.
Question: Imagine you are tasked with designing or managing a signature space for your community or future workplace. How would you incorporate natural wood surfaces to create an environment that inspires people to perform at their best?
Instead of focusing solely on technical data, describe the experience you want to create. How does the choice of high-quality, natural material like MFMA maple influence the atmosphere, the longevity of the space, and the way people interact with one another? Connect this vision to your own career aspirations and your philosophy on "quality over convenience."
♦ The journey of an MFMA maple floor begins in a managed forest and culminates in a high-performance environment, requiring a seamless bridge between natural science and technical craftsmanship. Whether it is a forester ensuring the health of the timberland, an architect designing a resilient structure, or a skilled installer mastering the nuances of wood moisture and subfloor systems, each professional plays a vital role in the lifecycle of a sustainable product. As global industries shift toward green building and renewable resources, the demand for experts who understand both the biology of wood and the precision of its application has never been higher.
Question: Describe a specific moment where you recognized the value of natural materials or high-quality craftsmanship in your field of study. How do you intend to use your education or vocational training to bridge the gap between raw natural resources and the creation of enduring, high-performance environments?
All submissions become MFMA property and may be published at the association’s discretion in any format.
Recipients
Winners will be notified by September 1, 2026, and awards will be paid directly to their educational institution.
Selected recpients must then submit the following:
- Student ID number, school address for payment, and tuition payment instructions.
- A photo of you at your college, university, or trade school.
- A statement on how winning this scholarship helps your educational goal.