Lamond GenNext Award

Scholarship Sponsored by National Association of Music MerchantsFoundation

About the Award

The Lamond GenNext Award supports students enrolled in two- or four-year colleges, universities, or technical programs who are preparing for careers in music, sound, and entertainment technology. It recognizes college students demonstrating excellence across music performance, business, production, and live event technology. Recipients receive a complimentary badge to attend The NAMM Show and a $750 stipend to offset travel and related expenses. Award activities include professional development sessions, networking opportunities, special events, and access to the tradeshow floor.

Description: Honors students who demonstrate achievement and promise in music-related fields and who will benefit from industry exposure at The NAMM Show.

Award Value: Complimentary NAMM Show badge plus a $750 travel stipend for The NAMM Show, Anaheim, CA, Jan. 26–30, 2027.

• Supports students pursuing careers in music, sound, and event technology.
• Includes industry access, professional development, and networking.
• Provides financial assistance specifically for travel to The NAMM Show.

Eligibility

Applicants must be enrolled for the Fall 2026 semester at a two- or four-year college, or in a music, sound, or event technology program, or have graduated within the past two years. Eligible applicants include sophomores, juniors, seniors, graduate students, and recent graduates (within two years). Candidates must have had an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. Past Lamond GenNext Award winners are not eligible to reapply.

Eligibility: Enrollment status or recent graduation, class standing, GPA requirement, and one-time award restriction for prior winners.

• Enrollment in Fall 2026 or graduation within the previous two years required.
• Open to sophomores through graduate students and recent graduates.
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0.
• Past winners may not reapply.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a resume, transcripts from the two most recent semesters, two letters of recommendation on letterhead (one from a faculty member), and a short essay or a three-minute video. The essay (up to 500 words) or video should describe the applicant’s background in music, career goals, and how attending The 2027 NAMM Show will advance those goals. Materials should demonstrate academic standing, professional potential, and clear objectives for participation. Submissions are used to evaluate fit for the award and readiness to engage with the NAMM community.

Required materials: Resume, recent transcripts, two letters of recommendation (one faculty), and a 500-word essay or 3-minute video outlining background and goals.

• Resume summarizing education and relevant experience.
• Transcripts from the two most recent semesters of enrollment.
• Two letters of recommendation on letterhead, including one from faculty.
• 500-word essay or 3-minute video explaining background, goals, and the benefit of attending NAMM.