The Book Industry Charitable Foundation will provide four scholarships--up from two previously--for comic store owners and their employees to attend the 2026 ComicsPRO industry meeting in Glendale, Calif., scheduled for February 18-21.
The funds, up to $1,500 per scholarship, may be used for travel, lodging, and meals. ComicsPRO will cover the registration fee for the meeting. Scholarship guidelines and the application form are available here. The deadline to apply is December 31, at 5 p.m. Eastern.
"We are proud to continue our support for comic retailers with this increase in the number of professional development scholarships we provide as well as doubling the amount available to cover increased travel costs," said Binc CEO Pam French. "Providing comic people access to networking and education opportunities is critical to strengthening stores and helping build sustainability."
Marco Davanzo, executive director of ComicsPRO, added: "We are thankful that Binc is providing four scholarships for the comic industry meeting. The scholarships will really help those retailers that wouldn't ordinarily be able to attend. Binc is an amazing organization, helping comic and bookstore owners and employees handle unforeseen emergencies. We are truly blessed to have them supporting the front lines of comics retail."