The NYSBA Research & Education Foundation (REF) is a philanthropic foundation in New York State dedicated to advancing the housing industry through research and education. Its work supports the residential construction industry by helping build knowledge, skills, and professionalism across the field. REF offers scholarships, research grants, and educational programming for students, local Home Builder Associations (HBAs), and HBA members.

Its scholarship opportunities serve people at different stages of their careers. The Morehouse Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in residential construction-related fields, while the Tools of the Trade Scholarship is for individuals newly entering the trades. The foundation also offers a scholarship for people new to the business who want to join their local HBA, NYSBA, and NAHB, as well as an NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) scholarship for members attending the event for the first time.

Through its Local HBA Grant, REF helps New York State associations fund events, projects, or causes that advance the industry.