DRI Foundation’s Women in Business Continuity Management (WBCM) scholarship helps propel women into professional jobs in the field of business continuity management.
Perhaps you’ve been out of the workforce to care for a child or elderly parent and are now looking for a way to return. Or, you’ve been unable to find a role that makes an impact while leveraging your passion all while working with a diverse group of professionals.
Business continuity is about helping organizations be prepared for emergencies. There are several different areas one can specialize within the field, but all are centered on keeping the business operational after a disruptive event.
Many who excel in this field are:
- Open and receptive to working with people at various levels of and organization
- Highly organized, comfortable with basic computer skills, and curious with a strong interest in learning
- Able to remain calm and focused in adverse situations
- Creative thinkers who generate and present innovative solutions
- Skilled at connecting critical details while remaining patient and persistent
If you have these qualities, business continuity might be the right career path for you.
DRI offers training that not only teaches the fundamentals of business continuity but also prepares professionals to earn industry certifications. The WBCM scholarship is a voucher for DRI’s BCLE 2000 (Business Continuity Planning) workshop and exam. You will be trained in the core practices of business continuity and how to execute best practices in different organizations. Upon completion, you will be prepared to take the qualifying exam and begin your journey toward becoming a certified business continuity professional!
The WBCM Scholarship includes:
- A complimentary DRI International business continuity education course (either in-person, near the recipient’s location, or a web-based class), including the qualifying exam
- For those who pass the qualifying exam, a complimentary DRI International certification application and all applicable application fees
- Please note: The Women in Business Continuity Management Scholarship does not include travel expenses such as airfare, lodging, or other costs associated with attending the course.
What support is available after the training?
WBCM has several resources to help support your success during and after your training. Recipients will have access to a network of women business continuity practitioners, mentorship, opportunities for information-sharing, and guidance. With at least two weeks’ notice, recipients may also request up to $500 assistance for dependent care assistance (with supporting documentation) during your training course and exam.
WBCM Scholarship Application
An application is required to be considered for the scholarship. Applications are accepted year-round. Please review the information below to determine your eligibility and apply today.
Requirements:
Applications will be accepted from individuals who:
- Reside in the United States or Canada
- Possess basic office and computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, email)
- Are able to attend and complete the workshop within six (6) months of being awarded a scholarship
- Complete the qualifying exam within seventy-two (72) hours of completing the training workshop
- Complete the certification application within thirty (30) days of passing the qualifying exam
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show interest or experience in business continuity, emergency management, or related resilience fields
Scholarship decisions are final and applicants will notified via email.
Instructions:
- Complete all sections of the application form
- Include a current resume
Note: This scholarship program is intended for individuals who are not currently employed in the business continuity profession.
Selection Process:
Applications are reviewed by an independent committee. All committee decisions are final. Applicants will be notified by email of the outcome.
Application Timeline
| Application Period | Review Month | Award Month |
| January-March | April | May |
| April-June | July | August |
| July-September | October | November |
| October-December | January | February |
Scholarship recipients have 30 days from the award notification date to select the BCLE 2000 class they wish to attend.
Recipients must notify DRI in writing within 30 days of the class start date if they are unable to attend the selected class.
Recipients will attend the selected class and complete the exam. Those who pass will receive a code to complete the certification application.
By accepting the scholarship, recipients grant DRI International and the DRI Foundation permission to use their name, application information, story, and images for printed and video materials, reports, press releases, ceremonies, and receptions, without compensation.
Important: Applicants who pay for the course prior to being awarded the scholarship will not be refunded. We strongly encourage applicants to wait until the award decision is received
Click here to apply.