Building the Future of Independent Pharmacy Practice
Since 1953, the NCPA Foundation has been a proud supporter of the National Community Pharmacists Association. Whether they’re developing innovative business ideas, supporting leadership training, or developing the next great student programs to provide the resources and opportunities pharmacy students need to succeed as independent pharmacy professionals, we have been proud to support them along the way. In 2019, NCPA Foundation was proud to fund the NCPA Foundation-UAMS Pharmacy Ownership and Leadership Academy, making it possible for pharmacy students to learn the fundamentals of pharmacy ownership, leadership, and self-awareness. The NCPA Foundation also offers several scholarship opportunities for pharmacy students. Ready to make a commitment to the independent pharmacy profession? Fill out a pledge card!
NCPA Foundation Scholarships
The NCPA Foundation offers multiple scholarship opportunities to support pharmacy students pursuing careers in independent pharmacy practice. Our scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to community pharmacy. Learn more.
NCPA Foundation-UAMS Pharmacy Ownership and Leadership Academy
POLA is a week-long academy focused on the fundamentals of pharmacy ownership, leadership and self-awareness. The POLA curriculum is specifically designed to help prepare students and equip them with the tools they need to be successful independent pharmacy owners. All POLA attendees will prepare a team mini-business plan presentation utilizing best practices for competing in the NCPA Student Business Plan Competition. The college was proud to host 35 students for the 2025 event from 25 different institutions across 14 states. Learn more.
NCPA's Programs
Good Neighbor Pharmacy NCPA Pruitt-Schutte Student Business Plan Competition
To promote interest in independent community pharmacy ownership, the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) and the NCPA Foundation have established the Good Neighbor Pharmacy NCPA Pruitt-Schutte Student Business Plan Competition. The goal of the Competition is to motivate student pharmacists to create the blueprint necessary for buying an existing independent community pharmacy or developing a new pharmacy. Through this competition, NCPA is better able to prepare tomorrow’s pharmacy entrepreneurs for a successful future. Learn more.
Student Leadership Council
The NCPA Student Leadership Council exists to represent student pharmacist members of the association. The SLC promotes the profession of pharmacy and the role of independent community pharmacists, and they work to ensure effective communication between NCPA Student Chapters and the NCPA Department of Student Affairs. The SLC also supports the development of future leaders in community pharmacy by recognizing and encouraging student pharmacists who have a strong interest in entrepreneurship and independent pharmacy. Learn more.
Internship and Rotations
The NCPA Summer Internship Program (funded by the NCPA Foundation) and the NCPA Experiential Rotation in Association Management are conducted at NCPA headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. The summer internship is co-sponsored by the NCPA Foundation. These opportunities provide student pharmacists with in-depth experience at a national pharmacy association and the opportunity to learn more about independent community pharmacy practice. Learn more.
Executive Residency
The NCPA Executive Residency is a springboard into a career of association work or independent practice that will provide you with distinction as a future leader in the health care field. The executive residency, conducted at NCPA Headquarters in Alexandria, VA, helps distinguish you from your fellow graduates by opening doors to new and rewarding opportunities in numerous areas of pharmacy and health care. Learn more.
NCPA Innovation Center/CPESN Community Pharmacy Fellowship
This executive MBA-like program showcases outstanding pharmacy peers who walk participants through implementing successful services that generate revenue beyond dispensing. They have 20 scholarships available on a first-come, first-served basis. The first 20 pharmacies to enroll a fellow receive half of their enrollment fee back upon completion of the program. Ask your pharmacy employer about it! Learn more.
EmpowerRx
EmpowerRx is designed to encourage pharmacy support staff to take the lead in enhancing workplace performance and patient care. Through practical education, the series empowers staff to grow their soft skills that are essential for delivering high-quality clinical services. Each module emphasizes creating a positive and productive work environment in which pharmacy team members can thrive, wherever they are in their career. Learn more.
