The 11th annual NRF Foundation Honors in New York City has raised $2.7m to back retail careers via training, scholarships and professional development programmes, organisers reported.
The fundraising event, attended by more than 700 industry representatives, brought attention to workforce development and talent cultivation in the global retail sector.
Fundraising for retail careers and training initiatives
The NRF Foundation Honors operates as a key retail careers funding initiative designed to channel support into education and workforce resources.
The funds raised at the gala will be directed towards career development schemes including scholarships, retail training and credentialing programmes aimed at early talent and experienced professionals alike.
Hosted by American Express and PwC, the event highlighted the foundation’s strategy to foster industry-ready talent and equip individuals with the skills needed for careers in retail.
The foundation’s RISE Up training and credentialing programme, notable for its industry-recognised credentials, is among the core initiatives supported by these funds.
Recognising leadership and emerging talent
A central feature of the honours event was the presentation of industry awards that acknowledge leadership and innovation within retail.
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Chief Executive Officer Fran Horowitz received The Visionary award for her contributions to brand development and sector leadership.
The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2026 included senior figures from nationwide and international retailers, with honourees such as e.l.f. Beauty’s Chief Marketing Officer and executives from Brooklinen, Walmart and PacSun. In addition, five store leaders were spotlighted for their operational excellence and community impact.
Scholarship awards and industry partnerships
The 2026 NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Starko of Babson College, recognising academic excellence and potential for leadership in retail.
A team from the University of North Texas secured top team honours in the NRF Foundation University Challenge, a competition that showcases strategic retail acumen.
The Door was named RISE Up Partner of the Year for its implementation of the RISE Up training programme, underlining the role of external organisations in expanding access to retail career pathways.
The award — presented by Old Navy — reflects effective collaboration between industry and nonprofit training partners.
Since its inception in 2015, NRF Foundation Honors has served as a flagship retail careers event, spotlighting the industry’s career opportunities and supporting initiatives that connect people with sustainable employment and development in retail.
