The KFC Foundation, a nonprofit that supports KFC restaurant employees and their communities, announces the launch of the Education Assistance Program in collaboration with InStride, a leading workforce development company. The program supports KFC team members in earning degrees, building new skills, and gaining professional credentials.
Through the partnership, eligible KFC U.S. restaurant employees* can now access $5,000 each school year in education assistance to use toward a variety of online learning options. The program provides personalized recommendations to help participants find degree and certification pathways that match their goals, interests, and experience.
“This partnership reflects the KFC Foundation’s continued commitment to investing in KFC restaurant employees’ futures and making education more accessible,” said KFC Foundation Executive Director Emma Horn. “By providing flexible online learning opportunities, we’re helping employees build new skills, reach their goals, and take the next step in their personal and professional development.”
All team members who enroll in the Education Assistance Program can access the education assistance to use toward their choice of over 1,000 degrees, industry and professional certifications, trade programs, and short skill-building courses.
Participating employees can access educational services through InStride’s academic network of more than 2,500 programs from leading public universities and education providers, including Arizona State University, ed2go Career Training, Franklin University, Indiana Tech, and more.
“Career growth looks different for everyone. We’re proud to partner with the KFC Foundation to connect KFC restaurant employees with a wide range of learning opportunities, from degrees and professional certifications to skills-based training, so employees can choose what fits their goals,” said Craig Maloney, CEO of InStride.
In addition to the $5,000 coverage, the Education Assistance Program offers up to $600 for course books and $100 for course fees annually to support employees in furthering their education and enhancing their skills. Team members who have already completed some college courses may be able to transfer their credits at select institutions and keep moving forward within the program.
Since 2012, the KFC Foundation has awarded over $40 million in scholarships and tuition assistance to more than 11,000 KFC restaurant employees.
