The Taco Bell Foundation announced a record $14.5 million in scholarships Tuesday, awarding funding to more than 1,500 students as applications for its Live Más Scholarship program surged to an all-time high.

The foundation said it received more than 41,000 applications this year, the largest in program history, driven by a new option allowing students to apply through video submissions in addition to essays. Overall applications nearly tripled year over year.

The Live Más Scholarship, now entering its second decade, is designed to support Taco Bell fans and employees based on passion and ambition rather than traditional academic or résumé-based measures, the foundation said.

“Growth like this tells us we’re building something that resonates far beyond a traditional scholarship,” said Morgan Tabor, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation.

About 60% of this year’s awards were renewals for returning scholars, a feature the foundation said reflects its emphasis on long-term support.

Among this year’s recipients, Mariah C. received a $25,000 scholarship for her work in architecture and efforts to encourage more young women to enter the field.

Other recipients included twin sisters Leslie D. and Ashley D., who were each awarded $25,000 for their work in youth golf access and aviation, respectively.

The foundation also highlighted its first Live Más Lab event, where six applicants were invited to Taco Bell headquarters to pitch business ideas to executives. Each received a surprise $25,000 scholarship, totaling $150,000 in awards.

“It’s also exposed me to a whole different way of navigating life and meeting people who give me a lot of wisdom and guidance,” said Caitlyn H., a Live Más Scholar from both 2025 and 2026.

Beyond scholarships, the Taco Bell Foundation also funds community grants and says it has awarded more than $246 million in total scholarships and grants since 1992, reaching more than 13 million young people.

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