Hey eco-warriors and future innovators! 🌱 Ready to make a real difference in the world and get some serious backing for your brilliant ideas? If you’re passionate about tackling environmental problems and dream of a sustainable future, then listen up!
The Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship Program is back for 2026, and it’s basically a *bursary* for young visionaries in South Africa and beyond who are ready to turn their eco-innovations into reality. This isn’t just about money; it’s about mentorship, support, and the chance to truly change things. Let’s dive into how you can get involved!
The Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship Program is an incredible opportunity designed for young, ambitious individuals who are committed to building a sustainable future through eco-innovation. Think of it as a launchpad for your environmental project ideas! It provides a comprehensive support system including one-on-one mentorship, venture coaching, and even significant financial support and project scholarships to help you develop and scale your solutions to pressing environmental issues.
Who Can Apply?
This awesome program is looking for dedicated and passionate young minds. Here’s who should definitely hit that application button:
- You need to be between **16 and 28 years old**.
- You’re passionate about addressing an environmental problem and have an idea on how to tackle it.
- You must reside in one of the participating countries (including South Africa!) for the duration of the fellowship.
- You need a good command of **oral and written English**.
- **No previous entrepreneurial experience is required** – just a burning desire to create a sustainable future!
- If you’re studying, working, or residing in South Africa (or other participating countries like Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, etc.), you’re eligible!
What Does It Cover?
This fellowship is packed with perks to help you succeed:
- **1:1 Mentoring:** Get personalized guidance from experienced professionals.
- **Venture Coaching:** Transform your project ideas into actionable plans.
- **Project Scholarships:** Opportunities to win up to **€20,000** to grow your initiatives and make a real impact!
- **Financial Support:** If you’re economically disadvantaged, you can apply for monthly financial support (based on a needs assessment) to cover living costs and local transportation for the first year.
- **Hybrid Learning Experience:** Meet with experts and fellow innovators at global events.
- **Travel & Expenses:** All travel, accommodation, and expenses are covered for key fellowship events.
- **Flexible Commitment:** It only requires about **24 hours per month**, making it easy to balance with your studies or work!
How to Apply?
Ready to start your journey as a beVisioneer? The application process takes about 30-40 minutes and has three main parts:
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Written Application: This section covers your basic info, contact details, your passion for an environmental challenge, your project idea, and your learning/financial needs. You’ll also complete a self-assessment test and upload a scanned copy of your passport or national ID.
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Video Interview: You’ll record a three-minute video directly on the application platform. Share what environmental challenge you’re passionate about and how you plan to address it. Don’t skip this – it’s crucial!
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Optional Financial Support Application: If you need financial assistance, this part is for you. You’ll need to:
- Provide **two references** (employed, non-family members) who can attest to your living situation. They’ll receive a link to submit their reference electronically.
- Submit an **income declaration** for your/your household’s yearly income from 2024.
Make sure you have all your documents and ideas ready to go!
For more information and to apply, visit the official Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship Program webpage:
Apply for the Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship Program here!
If you’re a young, driven South African innovator with a vision for a greener future, this is YOUR chance to get the support you need! Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by. If this sounds like the right bursary (or fellowship with bursary-like benefits!) for you, don’t wait — apply now and keep exploring more amazing opportunities on Bursaries Room!
