The PAVE Student Aid & Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students in educational programs preparing them for careers in the retail environments industry, including but not limited to careers in retail design and planning, and visual merchandising industries. The program was developed to help ensure a future talent pool for the industry by eliminating barriers to studying in these fields. The funds assist students who are experiencing financial difficulties that may prevent them from continuing school.

PAVE's Student Design Challenges promote “real world” design experience for students interested in pursuing careers in the retail design industry. Students involved in retail planning, visual merchandising, interior design, architecture and branding programs create a dynamic design space for sponsors of the competitions. Hundreds of students participating in our competitions demonstrate the will to innovate, redesign, and reinvent actual retail design space for sponsors across the world.

A great leader can easily recognize another great leader. Retailers, designers, and industry suppliers are invited to nominate individuals for PAVE's Rising Star award. PAVE is looking for young, innovative visionaries who are respected by their peers. If you have worked with a young professional who exhibits such traits, show them that they’re admired by nominating them.

Each year PAVE holds two signature events- the Bash and the Gala. These events are designed to inspire students and professionals alike, raise funds for PAVE programs, showcase the work of young talent and celebrate everything new and exciting in the worlds of retail design, retail planning and visual merchandising.

Since 1992 it has been our mission to connect students, educators and professionals who support the retail industry in a vibrant, meaningful and mentoring format. This vital connection encourages industry dialogue and the enrichment of curricula. 

The year 2020 gave us an opportunity to revisit a long time goal and launch a series of virtual learning events know as "PAVE Coffee Chats" and "PAVE Fireside Chats." Working in partnership with our education and industry partners, we are continuing to develop programs to supplement current course content and help bring today’s virtual classrooms the same wonder, engagement and excitement felt by students in traditional classes and studios.