Scholarship Program

Each year, The ELLA Foundation offers a range of scholarships to support First Nations dancers aged 7–21. These scholarships recognise different stages of a dancer’s journey — from first steps in the studio to advanced training for those moving into pre-professional pathways.

All applications are reviewed by our Scholarship Selection Panel, with consideration given to each dancer’s passion for dance, leadership potential, and financial need.

Available Scholarships

Elevate Scholarship – $200

  • Age Group: 7–12 years

  • Focus: For children just beginning their dance journey who need support to get started.

  • Eligibility: Enrolled, or planning to enrol, in a dance school with at least one class per week.

  • Assessment: Applicants should show an interest in taking part in dance classes and demonstrate that financial barriers prevent them from joining their chosen style.

Aspire Scholarship – $500

  • Age Group: 7–12 years

  • Focus: For young dancers already showing exceptional talent and passion.

  • Eligibility: Enrolled in a dance school with at least one weekly class that follows a formal syllabus.

  • Assessment: Applicants should demonstrate strong passion and commitment to dance, and show that financial need limits their ability to continue training.

Lead Scholarship – $800

  • Age Group: 12–21 years

  • Focus: For emerging cultural leaders making a positive impact in their communities through dance.

  • Eligibility: Enrolled in a dance school or program with at least two classes per week.

  • Assessment: Applicants should show leadership potential, active engagement in dance and community activities, and financial need.

Link Scholarship – $1,000

  • Age Group: 12–21 years

  • Focus: For dancers pursuing advanced training or transitioning into pre-professional or full-time study programs.

  • Eligibility: Enrolled in a dance school or program with at least two weekly classes following a formal syllabus.

  • Assessment: Applicants should demonstrate exceptional talent, commitment to training, and financial need to access opportunities for professional development.

Applications for 2026 will open in October 2025

Please read our Scholarship Program Guidelines for more information.

Mentoring Program

The Mentoring Program is designed to work alongside the Scholarship Program, providing additional guidance and support for dancers aged 13 and over. Through tailored mentorship, The ELLA Foundation helps young people grow their arts and cultural practice while continuing their regular dance training.

All successful scholarship applicants aged 13–21 are automatically placed in the Mentoring Program, with additional places offered to other applicants in this age group who demonstrate that they would benefit from mentoring. Each mentee is matched with a First Nations mentor who has the skills, knowledge, and experience to guide them in the dance and performing arts industry.

Mentors provide a safe space for mentees to explore their goals, challenges, and future aspirations. By drawing on their own personal and professional networks, mentors can open pathways to further training opportunities and share practical advice for continuing education and development.

Applications for 2026 will open in October 2025.

Please read our Mentoring Program Guidelines for more information.