Shape the Future of Urban Signage
Join the SRF Scholars Program
April 7 - 10, 2026, Orlando, FL
Are you seeking to deepen your understanding of signage, optimize city aesthetics, and navigate complex regulations? The Sign Research Foundation offers a unique opportunity for urban planners, landscape architects, code officials, and community developers to collaborate with top-tier academics and industry experts. As the only education program of its kind in the country, the SRF Scholars Program offers invaluable insights and networking opportunities specifically tailored to enhance your expertise in this crucial aspect of urban development.
Why the SRF Scholars Program is Indispensable for Urban Planning
- Master Sign Codes and Regulations: Gain a comprehensive understanding of sign codes and how they function within the planning field. Get crucial updates on legal precedents like Reed v. Gilbert, including impacts on municipal codes and permitting.
- Enhance Wayfinding and Placemaking: Learn how signage design and placement can have a major impact on defining place and community and the process of implementing new wayfinding systems in your community.
- Understand Economic Value and Municipal Revenue: Discover how signs can drive local economic development by attracting new businesses and visitors and even increasing property values.
- Embrace Technologies and Trends: Gain insight into how new technology will affect signage. The program explores cutting-edge concepts such as augmented signage and digital signage’s future role in commercial environments.
- Engage with Diverse Experts: The program offers unparalleled networking opportunities, allowing you to meet individuals from all branches of the industry, including sign code experts, designers, fabricators, city/district leaders, and other planners.
You’ll leave with a more rounded knowledge of signage, its technology, and its strategic application.
What Past Participants Say
The SRF Scholars Program is consistently praised for offering immediate and practical solutions to organizational signage issues.
How to Apply
Interested professionals are invited to apply for the 2026 SRF Scholars Program, taking place April 7-10 in Orlando, FL. The program is open to urban planners, building and landscape architects, code officials, community developers, graduate students and other practitioners who have interest or responsibility for writing, regulating, interpreting or enforcing sign ordinances. Up to 35 professionals will be selected to participate.
Participants will receive:
- Free ½ day Planning for Sign Code Success workshop
- Free entry to the ISA Sign Expo trade show floor, including guided tours focusing on innovative materials and technology
- Two (2) nights of hotel stay
- $250 stipend toward travel costs
- Small group work on your community's sign code with a network of experts and peers
- Free access to SRF research reports (over $1,000 value)
Out-of-pocket costs include:
- Cost of your flight over the $250 stipend we offer
- Cost of transportation to and from airport (approx. $50 one way)
- Meals outside of those offered
- $131 registration fee for SRF/ISA education sessions (this is a $570 savings)
- Any extra hotel nights and events
Accepted participants must commit to:
- Being present for the full program
- Actively engaging and participating in round table exercises and sponsored events
- Completing an evaluation about your experience
Selection Timeline
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until December 31, 2025. Applicants with less than 7 years of professional experience will be prioritized.
Selected applicants will be notified before March 2026.
