About Rising Tide Crisfield, Inc.

Rising Tide Crisfield, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit dedicated to revitalizing the Crisfield and Somerset County, Maryland community through strategic initiatives and cultural events. Our mission is to lift up the community, and we believe that "a rising tide lifts all boats." By supporting our local business and students, we will bolster our entire community.

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, Crisfield, once a thriving coastal community, faced significant challenges associated with devasting flooding that impacted our area. To aid in its recovery and future growth, in 2024, we founded Rising Tide Crisfield, Inc. a charitable organization dedicated to supporting local students and businesses.
As a non-profit organization, Rising Tide Crisfield, Inc. is dedicated to hosting community events that promote Crisfield's unique heritage, facilitate economic development, promote tourism, and support our local community and surrounding Somerset County, MD. Proceeds from the festivals we host are used to directly support economic and community development in Crisfield & Somerset County, Maryland. Additionally, by creating a college scholarship, using revenue generated from these events, we are supporting local students and bolstering our entire community.

Our Events

By partnering with us, your business can play a pivotal role in this mission, gaining significant exposure while supporting the economic and cultural health of the Eastern Shore. Our three signature festivals—the Crisfield Soft Shell Festival (Memorial Day Weekend) Tangier Sound Music Festival (June), and Crisfield Uncorked Wine Festival (October)—are more than just events; they are cornerstones of our community. They draw thousands of visitors, boost local commerce, and celebrate the unique heritage of our town.

Empowering the Class of 2026

Rising Tide Crisfield Inc. believes that the strength of our community lies in the potential of our youth. Every festival and local event we host has a singular purpose: to invest back into the people who make our neighborhood home.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, we are proud to announce that we are awarding three (3) scholarships to three outstanding local high school seniors. These awards are a direct result of the community’s generosity and our shared commitment to higher education and local service.

Award Details

Number of Awards: 3
Award Amount: $1,000 (One-time award)
Purpose: To be used for tuition, fees, books, or supplies at any accredited two-year or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the 2026 Scholarship, applicants must:

Be a legal resident of Somerset County, Maryland.
Be a graduating senior from a high school within Somerset County, Maryland.
High School GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Be accepted for full-time enrollment at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or technical school for the upcoming fall 2026 semester.
Demonstrate a strong commitment to community service or local involvement.
Plan to enroll full-time in an accredited post-secondary institution for the Fall 2026 semester.

How to Apply

We are looking for students who share our passion for giving back. Your application must include:

Completed Application Form
Personal Essay (500 words)
- Maryland requires 75 hours of service-learning for graduation, but true community impact goes beyond a requirement. Describe a specific way you have served the Somerset County community. How has this experience shaped your perspective on local needs, and how do you plan to continue a spirit of service during your college years?
Letter of acceptance from your chosen college/technical school.
Letters of Recommendation (Recommended):
Official High School Transcript.

Important Dates:

Applications Open: January 29, 2026

Deadline to Apply: March 31, 2026

Winners Announced: May 1, 2026

Powered by the Community

These scholarships are 100% funded by our local events. When you attend the Tangier Sound Music Festival, Crisfield Uncorked, or the Crisfield Soft Shell Festival, you aren't just having fun—you are sending a local student to college.