Deadline: November 1, 2025
Are you a graduate business student passionate about international trade, small business growth, and global collaboration? The DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 is your chance to gain hands-on experience supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging markets while being mentored by experts from DHL — the world’s leading logistics company.
This prestigious fellowship combines learning, mentorship, and impact, helping you develop vital skills for global business success.
About the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026
The DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 is a collaborative initiative between the Global Business School Network (GBSN) and DP DHL Group (under the GoTrade initiative). The programme aims to enhance access to quality management and entrepreneurial education in developing countries while fostering inclusive trade and sustainable growth.
Over an eight-month fellowship, graduate business students will be matched with SMEs in developing economies to provide advisory support, collaborate on business challenges, and help them expand internationally.
Fellows will:
- Receive guidance and mentorship from DHL professionals.
- Coach and mentor assigned SMEs throughout the programme.
- Follow a DHL-certified learning journey covering the fundamentals of international trade.
- Participate in regular virtual sessions with peers and mentors.
Time Commitment: 12–15 hours per month
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be enrolled at a participating GBSN member school at the start of the fellowship.
- Be fluent in English (Spanish or Portuguese is required for fellows working with SMEs in Latin America).
- Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset, and relevant work experience.
- Demonstrate interest in international trade, development, or SME growth.
Geographic Focus
Fellows will work with SMEs across several developing regions, including:
South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Kenya, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, Chile, El Salvador, Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, Malaysia, Nigeria, and Uganda.
Fellowship Duration and Timeline
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
- Programme Start: March 2026 (for approximately eight months)
- Monthly Commitment: 12–15 hours
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
- Professional Photo / Headshot
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume – maximum of 2 pages
- Introduction Video (max 2 minutes) – briefly introduce yourself and your motivation for applying. The video should be uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo (can be set to “unlisted”), and the link included in your application.
Why You Should Apply
The DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 is a powerful opportunity to:
- Gain real-world consulting experience with SMEs in developing markets.
- Build a global professional network connecting students, mentors, and entrepreneurs.
- Enhance your knowledge of international trade through DHL’s learning modules.
- Develop leadership, cross-cultural communication, and business strategy skills.
- Contribute meaningfully to economic growth and SME development in emerging economies.
This fellowship stands out as a bridge between academia and real-world business impact — equipping fellows with the skills, mindset, and network to thrive in international business.
Key Notes Before You Apply
- Ensure your school is a GBSN member (you can verify this on the GBSN website).
- Be prepared to commit about 12–15 hours per month over the eight-month fellowship period.
- Have reliable internet access for virtual sessions.
- If targeting Latin American SMEs, demonstrate language proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese.
- Prepare your video introduction and CV early to meet the deadline.
Important Links
🔗 Click here to Apply for the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026
🔗 Read more about the Programme
💬 Need help with your application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
