Philadelphia Diverse Emerging Leaders (PhiDEL) Scholarship & Internship Program

The PhiDEL program offers local students financial support and hands-on professional experience in real estate and economic development fields. Launched in 2025 by PIDC with support from Crow Holdings and Colliers, it is designed to advance opportunities for students from various backgrounds pursuing careers in real estate and economic development.

Geographic Scope: Philadelphia, PA (internship requires physical presence in Philadelphia)

Eligibility:

• Full-time undergraduate students (sophomores, juniors, seniors) OR graduate students
• Student at a Philadelphia college/university OR Philadelphia resident at college/university studying outside the Philadelphia area
• Internship Requirement: Must plan to be in Philadelphia for summer internships with commitment to full-time participation

Eligible College Majors:

• Real Estate (or related)
• Business Administration (any business major/concentration)
• Economic Development (or related)
• Law/Legal Studies
• Political Science/Public Policy
• Information Technology
• Marketing/Communications/Public Relations
• Human Resources
• Urban, City or Regional Planning/Design or Architecture
• Entrepreneurship
• *Similar curriculum degree paths with different names also eligible

Award Details:

• Up to two (2) scholarships of up to $5,000 each per year
• Fully-funded internship providing real-world experience in a work environment matching the student's major and career goals
• Internship includes physical presence requirement at work location
• Phone: 215-496-8020
• Address: 1500 Market Street Suite 3500 West, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Background: Newly launched in 2025 to support the next generation of economic development and real estate professionals with diverse backgrounds.

Application Process

Application Status: 2026 application cycle CLOSED. Applications expected to reopen January 2027.

Required Application Components:

• Resume
• List of clubs & extracurricular activities
• Community service & volunteering experience
• Honors & awards
• Work & internship experience (if any)
• Most recent undergraduate or graduate college/university transcript
• Four short essays (no more than 500 words each)

Transcript Requirements:

• Official transcripts are NOT required; unofficial transcripts acceptable
• Full name must be visible on all documentation
• Must show full transcript with all grades (not just grade reports)