Now Accepting Interest Forms for Miss New Bedford and Miss New Bedford’s Teen 2025!

The longest-running Miss America local in Massachusetts is back. This fall, the Miss New Bedford Scholarship Program will crown its 72nd Miss New Bedford and the 15th Miss New Bedford’s Teen. If you’re between the ages of 14 and 27 and live, work, or attend school in the Greater New Bedford area, this could be your year.

The 2025 competition will take place on Saturday, October 4, and offers a chance to win scholarships, gain invaluable professional development experience, and make a difference in your community.

🎓 Over $10,000 in Scholarships Available

The program will award more than $10,000 in scholarships this year, including a $3,500 scholarship for Miss New Bedford. Scholarships are available not only to the titleholders, but also to other contestants. Whether or not you win the crown, this program is an opportunity to grow as a leader, build your resume, and gain experience that lasts far beyond the competition.

💼 What to Expect as a Contestant

This is more than a pageant. It is a life-changing experience that builds confidence, sharpens public speaking and interview skills, and fosters friendships and community connections. The Miss New Bedford Scholarship Program is proud to offer a supportive environment for young women to thrive, grow, and lead.

For those crowned, the year ahead will be filled with service opportunities, leadership development, appearances in the community, and a spot on the Miss Massachusetts or Miss Massachusetts’ Teen stage in 2026.

📍 Attend the Info Session

Not sure if this is for you? Attend the upcoming Info Session to learn more about what the program involves.

• Date: Sunday, August 24

• Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

• Location: Cheryl McCormack Academy of Dance, 731 Tarkiln Hill Road, New Bedford

• RSVP Required: info@missnewbedford.org

During the session, organizers will walk through everything you need to know so you can decide whether to compete.

✨ You Don’t Have to Be from New Bedford

To compete, you do not need to live in New Bedford. Eligibility includes residents, students, or employees in the following cities and towns:Acushnet, Assonet, Dartmouth, Dighton, Fairhaven, Freetown, Lakeville, Marion, Mattapoisett, Middleboro, New Bedford, Rochester, Wareham, and Westport.

👗 Minimal Cost to Compete

This program is designed to be accessible. There is no large entry fee, and contestants have access to a wardrobe “closet” to borrow competition gowns, shoes, and accessories if needed.

📨 Ready to Learn More?

Fill out the Contestant Interest Form to express your interest and receive more information:👉 Click here to fill out the form

❤️ Support the Program

The Miss New Bedford Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has served the community for more than 70 years. In addition to providing scholarship money, the organization gives back through volunteerism, mentorship, and youth empowerment.

If you're interested in donating to help support scholarships for future titleholders and contestants, reach out to info@MissNewBedford.org.