As a global leader dedicated to advancing expertise in the optical industry, EssilorLuxottica has pledged $11 million over the next two years to support the success of future optometrists in partnership with the Association of Schools and Colleges (ASCO) in the US.

The investment serves as an opportunity for EssilorLuxottica to collaborate with optometry schools and colleges as well as help shape the next generation of optometrists entering the eyecare field, notably during a challenging time when there is a shortage of optometrists on the market combined with increases in student debt.

The Company’s pledge involves a $2.5 million investment in the installation of equipment and remote-access capabilities for all interested Optometry schools and colleges. These funds will allow future generations of doctors to gain valuable practical knowledge, using real clinical cases and completing hands-on experience with emerging technologies prior to graduation.

EssilorLuxottica will also provide $3 million in loan repayments to recent graduates seeking employment with its LensCrafters, Target Optical and Pearle Vision retail brands, allowing new doctors to start their careers without the added burden of student debt. Interested applicants in the US can click here for additional information.

Lastly, $5 million will go to ASCO and schools and colleges of Optometry for student scholarships. In addition to working for one of its brands (LensCrafters, Target Optical or Pearle Vision) following graduation, scholarship recipients will continue to have access to EssilorLuxottica’s innovative online educational platform – called Leonardo – for training and development as part of their employment. Applications will begin in Spring 2023, with the first scholarships being awarded for the 2023–2024 school year.

A cornerstone of the initiatives listed above, Leonardo will offer students access to content from industry experts on product development, lens technologies and practice management. In total, the platform has more than 5,760 hours of video, interactive lessons, podcasts and virtual classrooms in over 15 languages.

EssilorLuxottica is dedicated to cultivating a culture of innovation in the eyecare and eyewear industry, and supporting future doctors with important investments helps reinforce its commitment.