The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is accepting applications for NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation scholarships.

The scholarships, worth $1,000 to $10,000, will awarded to graduating high school seniors who operate their own businesses.

Since 2003, the NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation has awarded 2,095 scholarships valued at $2,382,000. Last year, the foundation received 4,500 applications and awarded 131 scholarships nationwide.

North Carolina seniors wishing to apply for a 2012 scholarship can do so online at www.NFIB.com/YEF

NFIB members may also visit the website to make tax-deductible contributions to the program.

The NFIB Young Entrepreneur Awards program was established to raise awareness among the nation's youth about the critical role that private enterprise and entrepreneurship play in the building of America.

The NFIB Young Entrepreneur Award recipients will attend the university, college, community college or vocational/technical institute of their choice, with $1,000-$10,000 in tuition assistance from the NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation.

To qualify, a student must operate his or her own business. Applicants also are required to write an essay describing their entrepreneurial endeavors and goals.

Standardized test scores, grade-point averages and class rank will also be considered. An independent, outside committee selects a group of qualified semi-finalists.

Anyone needing more information can contact NFIB/North Carolina Member Support Manager Kristie Helmick at kristie.helmick@NFIB.org or (919) 833-9480.