In an exciting new chapter for UC Irvine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, we are proud to announce the Choi Family Endowed ANTrepreneur Center Scholarship, a generous initiative made possible by alumni Carol and Eugene Choi. This scholarship will provide three $3,000 awards annually to students who exemplify entrepreneurial spirit, with a special focus on those engaged in their family businesses. Applications are open now through January 31st, accessible via ScholarshipUniverse.
Celebrating Carol and Eugene Choi: A Legacy of Leadership and Giving Back
Carol and Eugene Choi, proud alumni of UC Irvine, are widely celebrated for their considerable contributions to global business and their unwavering commitment to philanthropy. As trailblazers in entrepreneurship and innovation, the Chois have spent over 30 years building a legacy of success and generosity that resonates across industries and borders.
Their journey began at UC Irvine, where they cultivated the knowledge and skills that would propel them to global leadership. Today, they are recognized not only for their professional achievements but also for their dedication to fostering opportunities for future generations. Through their philanthropic endeavors, the Chois have demonstrated a profound belief in the power of education and entrepreneurship to shape lives and communities.
Now, the Chois have funded an endowment aimed at amplifying the Center’s mission of empowering students to pursue innovation and create impactful ventures. At the time this endowment was established, UCI was offering a 1:1 match for new undergraduate scholarship endowments, doubling the impact of the Chois’ generous gift in perpetuity. This endowed scholarship is the latest manifestation of their generosity, offering vital support to students navigating the challenges of higher education while pursuing entrepreneurial aspirations.
“We hope this scholarship helps students focus on their business ideas by taking away some of their financial burden and allowing them to explore their entrepreneurial potential,” said Carol Choi.
“We’re excited to empower entrepreneurs starting their own businesses; especially those who bring innovative talent to family businesses that are seeking forward-thinking leaders,” added Eugene Choi.
Empowering Student Entrepreneurs to Thrive
The Choi Family Endowed ANTrepreneur Center Scholarship reflects the Chois’ commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at UC Irvine. By reducing financial stress, this scholarship allows students to focus on creating impactful ventures and exploring their entrepreneurial potential without limitations. Additionally, by investing in aspiring entrepreneurs, the Chois are helping nurture the next generation of leaders who will shape industries, solve pressing global issues, and create meaningful change
“Carol and Eugene’s unwavering support underscores the transformative power of entrepreneurship,” said Ryan Foland, Director of the UCI ANTrepreneur Center. “This scholarship will inspire students to think bigger, innovate boldly, and create solutions that address real-world challenges.”
“This scholarship is more than financial support; it’s a testament to the Chois’ belief in the power of ideas and the potential of UC Irvine’s students to achieve greatness,” added Michael Dennin, Professor of Physics, Dean of UCI Undergraduate Education, and Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning.
How to Apply
Applications are open through January 31st, and students can apply by logging into ScholarshipUniverse using their UCInetID. Eligible students should demonstrate an interest in entrepreneurship and innovation, and those involved in their family businesses.
A Reminder About Financial Aid
The Choi Family Endowed ANTrepreneur Center Scholarship (and all other scholarship opportunities offered through ScholarshipUniverse) provides financial aid support to a student’s overall cost of attendance. UC Irvine’s cost of attendance includes tuition and fees, housing and food, books and supplies, and transportation expenses. Every student has a unique financial aid package that may consist of UC or UC Irvine scholarships, scholarships from outside entities, federal or state grants, loans, and/or work-study. To better understand your specific financial aid package and your maximum allowable cost of attendance, please log into your ZotAid account.
The Road Ahead
Thanks to the vision and generosity of Carol and Eugene Choi, UC Irvine’s ANTrepreneur Center is better equipped to empower students to innovate, lead, and excel. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to fuel their entrepreneurial dreams.
Visit the ANTrepreneur Center website to learn more about programming, speaker series, Micro-Internships, funding, and more. You can also learn more about the Center’s collaborations with Blackstone LaunchPad, Tech Coast Angels, Tech Coast Venture Network, OC Startup Council, and SoCal Celebrates Entrepreneurship. Keep up with the Center’s latest news by following them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.