The Cannes Lions 2026 Scholarships for underrepresented talent in the creative industry (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline: 22 January 2026

Applications are currently being accepted for the prestigious Cannes Lions Scholarships for the year 2026. This initiative is dedicated to nurturing the upcoming generation of creative professionals, with a strong focus on fostering diversity across various dimensions such as geography, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, identity, and unique viewpoints.

The program offers a total of 10 fully funded scholarship positions: five slots are allocated for the Brand Marketers Academy and another five for the Creative Academy. These scholarships target talented individuals under the age of 30, representing 10 different countries globally.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must have been born on or after 26 June 1995.
• The minimum age to apply is 18 years, and applicants are required to provide valid proof of age.
• A minimum of two years' professional experience in a relevant role is mandatory to qualify.
• All LIONS Academy sessions and materials are conducted in English, so proficiency in English is essential.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful candidates will benefit from an all-expenses-paid trip to the Cannes Lions 2026 Festival. This includes accommodation, travel expenses, and a living allowance to support their stay. As part of the scholarship, recipients will receive a Young Lions Festival pass, granting them exclusive access to a variety of enriching classroom sessions led by internationally renowned speakers. Additionally, scholars will engage in hands-on workshops and receive coaching from some of the most respected figures in the creative industry.

How to Apply

The application process requires three components:

• A short video (maximum 2 minutes) recorded in English, introducing yourself and explaining why you deserve a place in the Academy.
• A written statement (up to 250 words) responding to the prompt: “Describe what creativity means to you.”
• A character reference (up to 250 words) from your employer, company’s talent officer, a senior executive within your organization, or a previous LIONS Academy alum.

Important Dates

For detailed information and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Cannes Lions Scholarships.