Arizona Nerd Network x University of Silicon Valley Launch Scholarship for Builders

The Arizona tech ecosystem continues to expand access and opportunity through meaningful partnerships. A new collaboration between the Arizona Nerd Network (AZNN) and University of Silicon Valley is creating a direct pathway for builders and creators to turn their skills into tangible opportunities.

Led by community leaders like Don Fotsch and Sami Mian, AZNN has become a hub for talent that often goes overlooked. This new scholarship program is designed specifically for its members—rewarding those actively building, creating, and solving real-world problems.

The initiative reflects a shared belief that talent is everywhere, and that access to education and opportunity should follow. Through this partnership, students will gain hands-on experience building real products, working on real projects, and engaging directly with companies.

Programs like this continue to strengthen Arizona’s pipeline of founders and operators—reinforcing a more inclusive, connected, and opportunity-driven tech ecosystem.