FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason Athletics has launched NOVA's Team Small Business Marketing Scholarship, a new initiative designed to help emerging local businesses and startups across Fairfax County and Northern Virginia accelerate their growth through the visibility, storytelling, and community connections of George Mason Athletics.
Rooted in the belief that strong communities are built through strong local businesses, the scholarship will provide one selected business with a comprehensive marketing and business development package to increase brand awareness, expand professional networks, connect with student-athletes and the university community, and position the business for long-term success.
"George Mason Athletics is proud to support the entrepreneurs and small businesses that make Northern Virginia a vibrant community," said
Marvin Lewis, Assistant VP and Director of Athletics at George Mason. "We're excited to provide a platform that helps business leaders tell their stories, expand their reach, and connect with the Mason community."
Through the scholarship, the selected recipient will gain access to a variety of promotional, networking, and engagement opportunities designed to elevate their brand and tell their story to audiences across the region.
The Selection Process
Applications will be accepted throughout August. Finalists will be selected by September 1, and the scholarship recipient will be officially announced on September 15.
A selection committee of representatives from George Mason Athletics, Mason Sports Properties, university partnerships, and additional community and economic development partners will review applications.
Recipients will be selected through a holistic review process based on:
- Business growth potential
- Innovation and entrepreneurial vision
- Community impact
- Alignment with the mission of George Mason University and Mason Athletics
- Ability to maximize the opportunities provided through the scholarship
The committee reserves the right to prioritize applicants whose mission and vision closely align with the goals of the NOVA's Team initiative.
The Scholarship Package
Marketing Assets
The scholarship recipient will receive:
- Five (5) advertising placements in The Patriot Brew (44,000-subscriber distribution)
- Five (5) in-arena advertising placements at a Patriots basketball game
- Business of the Week Feature on George Mason Athletics platforms
- Participation in a Mini Documentary Series Celebrating Northern Virginia Small Businesses
- Access to student-athlete partnerships and NIL opportunities
Entertainment Benefits
Recipients will receive:
- Two (2) full season tickets for both George Mason Men's and Women's Basketball
- Thirty (30) group tickets to a game of their choice
Exclusive Event Access
The scholarship package includes invitations to:
- The NIL Student-Athlete Expo (March/April)
- The NOVA's Team Business Summit (August 2027)
Businesses interested in applying are encouraged to submit their
application prior to the September 1 deadline and join a growing movement dedicated to strengthening Northern Virginia through entrepreneurship, innovation, and community partnership.
