Deadline: March 23, 2026
The DSM Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications! This fully funded opportunity will support five outstanding young leaders from Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
If you are an entrepreneur or impact-driven leader working to tackle malnutrition, strengthen community resilience, or restore ecosystems, this scholarship could be your gateway to global exposure, high-level networking, and international recognition.
In this post, you will find all the details you need about eligibility, benefits, selection focus areas, application deadline, and how to apply for the DSM Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026.
About the Scholarship
The DSM Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026 is sponsored by the dsm‑firmenich Progress Foundation in partnership with One Young World.
The scholarship will enable five exceptional young leaders to participate in the One Young World Summit 2026, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa from 3 – 6 November 2026.
This opportunity is designed to empower young entrepreneurs who are driving measurable impact in sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
Focus Areas
Applicants must be actively working and demonstrating impact in at least one of the following areas:
- Fighting malnutrition
- Strengthening community resilience
- Protecting and restoring ecosystems
Strong preference is given to founders and entrepreneurs who are building scalable solutions within these impact themes.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the DSM Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be 18 – 30 years old at the time of the Summit
- Reside in Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America
- Have 3 – 5 years of experience in business or enterprise (preferably as a founder or entrepreneur)
- Demonstrate clear evidence of leadership and measurable impact
- Show commitment to driving sustainable and inclusive change
Note:
- Applicants over 30 may be considered if they demonstrate exceptional leadership and impact.
- Individuals who will be under 18 at the time of the Summit are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)
Selected scholars will receive comprehensive financial and programme support, including:
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026
- Return economy flights to Cape Town
- Hotel accommodation from 31 October – 8 November 2026
- Catering (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Summit days)
- Ground transportation between accommodation and Summit venue
- Participation in pre- and post-Summit programming
- Exclusive networking opportunities with the dsm-firmenich delegation
This fully funded package ensures that selected participants can focus entirely on maximising their leadership development and global networking experience.
Important Dates
- Applications Opened: 16 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Early application is strongly encouraged, as this is a competitive global scholarship opportunity.
Why Apply?
The DSM Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides:
- Access to one of the world’s most influential youth leadership summits
- Opportunities to connect with global leaders, policymakers, and investors
- International visibility for your enterprise or initiative
- Long-term engagement within the One Young World community
If you are building solutions that improve nutrition, enhance resilience, or restore ecosystems, this scholarship can significantly elevate your impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the official One Young World application platform.
Ensure that your application clearly outlines your leadership journey, measurable impact, and alignment with the scholarship focus areas.
Need Help With Your Application?
If you require professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or application review, kindly contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
