Best Culinary Scholarships 2018

The culinary world owes a lot to the contributions of immigrants: They're not only expanding the vocabulary of American cuisine but some of the country's greatest chefs are immigrants themselves. 

Over the past few years, The Vilcek Foundation has been recognizing those who've been shaping the way we look at food with annual grants, "established in the belief that our openness to the world is our greatest asset." The foundation encourages food industry professionals—including chefs, food writers and specialists in the drinks industry—to apply for one of the three Creative Promise Prizes consisting of $50,000 each.

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"The culinary arts are a medium through which culture is preserved, elevated, merged and enriched," the foundation's cofounder, Marica Vilcek, says. "For years, immigrants have been at the vanguard of culinary innovation, and we are pleased to recognize this rich body of contributions."

To be considered for any of the awards, applicants must be immigrants under the age of 38 working in the culinary field and must apply by June 11. Meanwhile, a separate award, the Main Vilcek Prize, will choose the nation's top immigrant chef (past winners include the likes of José Andrés) for a $100,000 prize.

Those interested in the awards can apply here.