Built for Spartans Advancing Technology-Driven Ventures.
Established in 2021, the Kelly A. Ford Technology Scholarship supports Michigan State University students who are pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities in technology. This scholarship recognizes students who show drive, initiative, and the ability to turn ideas into progress, especially those building or advancing technology-focused startups.
By reducing financial barriers, the scholarship helps students stay focused on learning, building, and moving their ventures forward through hands-on entrepreneurial experiences.
Who Should Apply
This scholarship is for students who are motivated to pursue entrepreneurship in technology and are actively working toward educational and professional goals. Students who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply. Application deadlines and award details are outlined in the application. Applicants must:
- Be a student in good academic standing at Michigan State University
- Demonstrate a financial need.
- Pursuit of entrepreneurial opportunities in technology (preferred).
About the Donor
Kelly A. Ford
Kelly A. Ford is a technology leader, investor, and Spartan alumna (Communications, ’94). She leads firm operations at Edison Partners, where she oversees investment development, value creation, portfolio management, finance, and marketing, and serves on the firm’s investment committee. Kelly is also the founder of Edison’s Edison Edge value creation platform.
Over her career, Kelly has worked with more than 55 portfolio companies, participated in 15 financings, and served as a director for 12 companies. Prior to joining Edison Partners, she spent two decades helping build and scale high-growth B2B and B2B2C technology companies, including Sundaysky, Operative, LivePerson, and Groove Networks.
Deeply engaged with Michigan State University, Kelly formerly served as an Entrepreneur in Residence with the Burgess Institute and on the advisory board for MSU’s Center for Venture Capital, Private Equity and Entrepreneurial Finance. Through this scholarship, she is investing in Spartans who are building technology-driven ventures and shaping what’s next.