Donald Graham, former chairman and CEO of the Washington Post Co., on Tuesday announced a new college scholarship program for young people who are in the U.S. illegally and cannot qualify for federal financial aid programs.

The program, called TheDream.US, is a private sector analogue to states that have moved to offer in-state tuition rates to illegal immigrants, policies that have been criticized by conservatives.

“While immigration reform may eventually address this issue, TheDream.US founders are not content to wait as the futures of these young Americans hang in the balance,” the announcement said.