2026 ZGF Architects Norm Zimmer Scholarship

The Norm Zimmer Scholarship is open to students entering their final year in the Fall of 2026 in the following accredited programs: Architecture (NAAB), Interior Design (CIDA), Urban Planning and Design (PAB), or Landscape Architecture (LAAB).

Established in memory of ZGF founding partner Norm Zimmer, the scholarship reflects Norm’s spirit and lifelong commitment to design, community, and learning. Guided by this ethos, one (1) student is selected each year to receive $10,000 toward university tuition and fees, as well as the opportunity to participate in an optional paid internship with ZGF.

ZGF is dedicated to supporting the next generation of designers and encourages applications from students across architectural, interior, urban, and landscape design disciplines. ZGF is seeking students who demonstrate a strong commitment to their craft and to personal and professional development in their chosen field. ZGF is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and strongly encourages women and underrepresented minorities to apply.

Eligibility:
Current students enrolled in an accredited architecture (NAAB), interior design (CIDA), urban planning and design (PAB), or landscape architecture (LAAB) program in the United States who will begin their final year in an accredited program in the fall of 2026. Valid . graduation dates from your current program can include both winter (December) of 2026 or spring (April/May) of 2027.

Materials:
1. Resume
2. Academic portfolio
- Include (5) examples of academic design work with written description (5 projects maximum). All examples (conceptual sketches, three-dimensional views, etc.) should be produced in a manner that is readable and legible.
- Original work is preferred. Work done with a single partner may be submitted, but it must include a description of the applicant’s specific contribution.
- Acceptable formats: Upload (1) file with projects combined in a single PDF (max 9MB file size), or a link to online portfolio in format stated above.
3. One page essay
Please describe how you hope to positively impact the world through design (1 page maximum).
4. Letter or Recommendation
Written by a faculty member of your current institution with direct knowledge of your work, addressing your talent, and passion for the field of architecture and design.
5. Finalist Video Submission in Early to Mid-February
Finalists will be notified to submit a personal 3-minute video introducing themselves to judges.

Internship
The winner of the scholarship is eligible for a paid internship for the duration of (10) weeks in one of the following ZGF locations: Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; Los Angeles, CA; Washington DC; New York, NY.
*This internship is optional and not a requirement of the scholarship. The internship is dependent on work authorization in the U.S. individuals with work authorization in Canada may request an internship in the Vancouver, BC Office.