Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Launches Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program

New scholarship initiative aims to support students from rural Texas communities.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:28pm

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The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, in partnership with the Hildebrand Foundation, has announced the establishment of the Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program. This new scholarship initiative is designed to support outstanding students from rural communities across Texas who are involved in 4-H and/or FFA and qualify for federal Pell Grants.

Why it matters

The program aims to expand access to higher education and workforce training opportunities for students from rural Texas communities, who often face barriers to accessing scholarship funding that is disproportionately directed towards urban areas. By supporting these students, the program seeks to invest in the future of agriculture and rural Texas.

The details

The Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program will award scholarships across three categories: Four-Year Scholarships ($20,000), Vocational Scholarships ($6,000), and Achievement Scholarships ($4,000 per semester up to $16,000). The application process will open on April 1 and close on May 1, with scholarship recipients announced in late June. Current Rodeo Scholars will also be eligible for additional Achievement Scholarships through the program.

  • The Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program will launch in 2026.
  • The application process for the Four-Year and Vocational Scholarships will open on April 1 and close on May 1, 2026.
  • Scholarship recipients will be formally recognized at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholars Picnic on July 11, 2026.

The players

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

A family-friendly annual event that promotes agriculture, educates the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community.

Hildebrand Foundation

A foundation that believes talent and potential are widespread in small communities across Texas and aims to invest in young leaders from rural areas.

Chris Boleman

CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Jeff Hildebrand

Representative of the Hildebrand Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“The Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program is about opening doors for students who are deeply rooted in agriculture and ready to shape its future.”

— Chris Boleman, CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

“At the Hildebrand Foundation, we believe talent and potential are everywhere in small communities spread across Texas. Unfortunately, opportunity does not always find its way to these rural communities, with large urban areas receiving a disproportionate amount of scholarship funding. Through the Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program, we will be 'sowing the seeds' of opportunity for students from rural communities across Texas, helping them build a strong foundation for their path ahead.”

— Jeff Hildebrand, Representative of the Hildebrand Foundation

What’s next

The application process for the Four-Year and Vocational Scholarships will open on April 1, 2026 and close on May 1, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be announced in late June 2026.

The takeaway

The Hildebrand Rural Scholars Program represents a significant investment in the future of rural Texas, providing educational opportunities and support for students from agricultural communities who often face barriers to accessing scholarship funding. By partnering with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the program aims to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators in the state's vital agricultural sector.