Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
The application window is now open for the 2026 dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship, an initiative dedicated to nurturing sustainable development and empowering emerging changemakers worldwide. The independent dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation is committed to fostering transformative impact by supporting young leaders who are driving positive change in their communities.
This year, the foundation will award five distinguished young entrepreneurs the chance to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026, scheduled to take place from 3 to 6 November in Cape Town, South Africa.
About the Scholarship
The dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship is designed to back young innovators who are actively making a difference on either a local or global scale, focusing on three primary thematic areas:
- Combating Malnutrition: Projects that effectively tackle micronutrient deficiencies and ensure access to high-quality, nutritious food for the most vulnerable populations.
- Enhancing Community Resilience: Efforts that bolster social equity and empower communities to withstand socioeconomic challenges.
- Protecting and Restoring Ecosystems: Initiatives aimed at climate action, biodiversity conservation, and safeguarding vital water resources to strengthen the natural environment.
Relevant projects might include, but are not limited to:
- Programs addressing nutritional gaps by delivering superior quality food to underserved groups.
- Community development initiatives that reduce inequality and build lasting resilience against social and economic adversities.
- Conservation and restoration activities that focus on ecosystem health, climate mitigation, and preserving biodiversity.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of the Summit (candidates over 30 may be considered if they demonstrate exceptional impact and engagement, but those under 18 cannot be accepted).
- Reside in regions including Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America.
- Possess between 3 to 5 years of business experience, ideally having managed or owned their own enterprise.
- Demonstrate active contributions to at least one of the scholarship’s focal areas: fighting malnutrition, community resilience, or ecosystem protection and restoration.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful recipients of the scholarship will enjoy a comprehensive package that includes:
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, an unparalleled global platform for young leaders.
- Accommodation in Cape Town, with hotel check-in on 31 October and check-out on 8 November, covering the full duration of the summit and related events.
- Return economy-class airfare to Cape Town, ensuring convenient travel arrangements.
- Meals provided throughout the Summit period, including breakfast at the hotel, as well as lunches and dinners during core summit days.
- Ground transportation between the accommodation and the summit venue for seamless participation.
- Opportunities to engage in pre- and post-summit programming in Cape Town, along with participation in the dsm-firmenich delegation’s activities during the event.
This scholarship represents a unique opportunity for young leaders to expand their networks, gain invaluable global exposure, and further amplify their impact within their communities and beyond.
For those interested in applying or seeking additional details, please Visit the Official Webpage of the dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship.
