Marsai Martin’s Marsai’s Way Foundation has launched its latest initiative. In partnership with FICO and Seeds of Fortune Inc., the foundation has announced the FICO Financial Empowerment Fellowship, a program designed to equip college students with financial literacy skills and leadership development. Ten selected students will each receive a $1,500 scholarship, financial education from FICO and leadership training through Seeds of Fortune Inc. Fellows will also be tasked with bringing financial education resources back to their campuses and communities to promote healthier financial habits.
As an added incentive, selected fellows will attend the Marsai Martin Resolution Brunch in Atlanta during MLK weekend, where they will connect with Martin and other changemakers. The fellowship is open to students enrolled in a two-year or four-year college or university or an accredited trade or vocational program in the U.S. Applications close September 21, 2026.
“We spend so much time preparing for our careers, but understanding your finances is just as important,” Martin said. “Learning how credit works, making smart financial decisions, and building wealth for your future, those are life skills that create opportunities.”
The fellowship is the latest milestone for the Marsai’s Way Foundation, which Martin founded in honor of her late cousin Marsai Chari Murray, after whom she was named. Rooted in the belief that legacy is not what you leave behind but what you pour into others while you are here, the foundation is dedicated to empowering underserved youth through scholarships, mentorship, education and leadership opportunities organized around four pillars: scholarships, health and wellness, leadership development and financial literacy.
To date the foundation has reached 10,000 students, completed 64 projects, built 36 worldwide partnerships and distributed $200,000 in scholarships, supported by partners including Procter & Gamble and American Credit Union. The FICO Financial Empowerment Fellowship also builds on a three-year partnership between Martin and Seeds of Fortune Inc. announced earlier in 2026 to support 10,000 young women through financial education and wealth-building initiatives.
The deadline to apply is September 21, to apply click here.