PIDC-D'Alessio Scholarship for Urban Development

This scholarship honors Walt D'Alessio's 46+ years of leadership at PIDC and his commitment to Philadelphia's growth. It supports graduate students pursuing careers in urban development and finance.

Geographic Scope: Philadelphia, PA

Eligibility:

• Pursuing a graduate degree
• Student at a Philadelphia college/university OR Philadelphia resident studying outside the Philadelphia area
• Pursuing one of these fields:
  • Urban Studies
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Public Administration
  • Real Estate
  • Regional and/or City Planning
  • Urban Planning and Design

Award Details:

• Up to two (2) scholarships of up to $2,500 each (2026 cycle)
• Scholarship recipients will also be offered a paid PIDC fall internship
• Phone: 215-496-8020
• Address: 1500 Market Street Suite 3500 West, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Background: Established in 2018 as part of PIDC's 60th Anniversary to recognize Walt D'Alessio's decades of leadership and service to Philadelphia's business, civic, and governmental communities.

Application Process

Application Period: February 2 - March 31, 2026

Steps to Apply:

1. Apply using the online portal (create a new ISTS login if new)
2. Click the "Add New Application" button
3. Enter the program key: PIDC

Required Application Components:

• Resume
• List of clubs & extracurricular activities
• Community service & volunteering experience
• Honors & awards
• Work & internship experience (if any)
• Most recent undergraduate college/university transcript
• Most recent graduate college/university transcript
• Two short essays (no more than 250 words each)

Essay Questions:

1. What do you do to give back to your community and why is it important to you?
2. How will this scholarship and internship opportunity advance your career and/or personal life?

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)