You can now apply for the Fully Funded dsm-Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship which gives young leaders the rare opportunity to participate in the One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany.
The aim of this scholarship is to empower five impactful young entrepreneurs or change-makers who are driving progress in areas critical to human and environmental well-being.
The dsm-Firmenich Progress Foundation is committed to supporting passionate persons who are creating sustainable solutions that fight malnutrition, strengthen communities, and protect ecosystems around the world.
About the dsm-Firmenich Progress Foundation
The dsm-Firmenich Progress Foundation supports global initiatives that create healthier lives, stronger societies, and a more sustainable planet. By investing in innovative young leaders through scholarships like this, the Foundation helps address key development challenges and build a brighter future for all.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
If you are selected, you will receive full support to attend the Summit.
The benefits include:
- Access to the One Young World Summit: You will get a full conference pass to attend all sessions, workshops, and networking events.
- Accommodation: You will also get a free hotel stay in Munich.
- Travel: Economy class return flights to and from Munich.
- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are covered on conference days.
- Ground transport: You will get free transportation between the accommodation and the Summit venue.
- Pre-summit programme: Opportunity to participate in a pre-event in Munich.
- Networking: Exclusive chance to join the dsm-firmenich delegation during the Summit.
Focus areas of the Scholarship
Applicants should be working on projects or initiatives that create tangible positive change in one or more of the following areas:
1. Fighting Malnutrition
Scholars working in this area are expected to focus on solving global nutrition challenges. Their work could involve:
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- Creating solutions that address micronutrient deficiencies.
- Delivering nutrient-rich foods to vulnerable communities.
- Innovating ways to improve the quality and accessibility of food.
2. Strengthening Community Resilience
This area covers efforts to make communities more adaptable and stronger in the face of challenges.
Relevant activities include:
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- Projects reducing social inequalities.
- Programmes that empower marginalized groups.
- Initiatives fostering economic resilience and community cohesion.
3. Protecting and Restoring Ecosystems
Scholars active in environmental protection and ecosystem restoration are strongly encouraged to apply.
Projects could include:
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- Climate action initiatives.
- Programmes enhancing biodiversity.
- Work to safeguard water systems or rehabilitate natural habitats.
Examples of eligible projects
Projects like:
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- A startup producing affordable fortified foods for low-income families.
- A community-led programme building disaster resilience in flood-prone regions.
- An NGO restoring degraded forests to boost biodiversity and climate resilience.
Applicants are not limited to these examples but must demonstrate clear alignment with the core themes.
Eligibility requirements
To apply for the dsm-Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship, you must meet the following:
- Age: Must be aged between 18 and 30 at the time of the Summit.
(Note: Candidates older than 30 can be considered if they can show exceptional personal impact and leadership.) - Residency: Must currently reside in Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America.
- Experience: Must have between 3 to 5 years of experience in business, preferably leading or running their enterprise.
- Focus area: Must be creating a positive impact in fighting malnutrition, strengthening community resilience, or protecting ecosystems.
- Exposure: Preference will be given to applicants who have had limited opportunities for national or international exposure.
Important: Applicants must not be under the age of 18 by the time of the Summit.
Application process
Applying for the scholarship is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Candidates must fill out the online application form, providing information about:
- Their details.
- Their current project or work is related to one of the three focus areas.
- Their motivation for applying.
- How they believe attending the Summit will amplify their impact.
Applicants are encouraged to highlight how their work aligns with the values and mission of the dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation.
If you want to apply, Click here to apply.
Why apply for this Scholarship?
The One Young World Summit is the world’s largest and most impactful youth leadership event.
It brings together young leaders from 190+ countries and connects them with global influencers like CEOs, activists, and Nobel laureates.
Attending the Summit through the DSM-Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship means you will:
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- Gain global recognition for your work.
- Build lifelong professional networks.
- Receive mentorship and guidance.
- Access new ideas, collaborations, and funding opportunities.
Being a delegate means you will join a lifelong global community of young leaders who are making a real difference.
Find more information about the DSM-Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship here.