FAQ: Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs - Supporting Future Business Leaders

What is the Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs?

The Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs is a $1,000 prize designed to support undergraduate students pursuing entrepreneurship as a career, established by Dr. Wade Newman to empower the next generation of business leaders.

Who is eligible to apply for this award?

Eligible applicants must be currently enrolled undergraduate students at accredited U.S. colleges or universities, pursuing entrepreneurship studies or demonstrating clear entrepreneurial career intentions, maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

What are the key application deadlines?

The application deadline is July 15, 2026, and the winner will be announced on August 15, 2026.

What is required in the application?

Applicants must submit a complete application including an original 500-750 word essay responding to the prompt about integrating social responsibility and community impact into their entrepreneurial journey.

Who is Dr. Wade Newman and why did he create this award?

Dr. Wade Newman is the founder of Eagle Valley Family Dentistry, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, and former President of the Pennsylvania Dental Association who created this award to reflect his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and empowering the next generation through business innovation.

What is the essay prompt for the application?

The essay prompt asks applicants to describe how they plan to integrate social responsibility and community impact into their entrepreneurial journey, including what specific need their venture will address and how they will measure success beyond profit.

What qualities or background does Dr. Newman bring that informs this award?

Dr. Newman’s career demonstrates entrepreneurial spirit through building a thriving dental practice while serving 20+ years in the Air National Guard, balancing roles as healthcare provider, military leader, and business owner with a commitment to humanitarian service through organizations like Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile.

How will essays be evaluated?

Essays will be evaluated based on demonstrated commitment to ethical entrepreneurship, clarity of vision, and understanding of social responsibility in business.

What is the award amount and what can it be used for?

The award provides $1,000 to support undergraduate students pursuing entrepreneurship as a career, though specific usage details beyond supporting their entrepreneurial education and development are not specified in the content.