The dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers young changemakers the chance to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa. The application deadline is 23 March 2026. This fully funded scholarship targets young leaders who are making a significant impact in their communities, especially in the areas of fighting malnutrition, strengthening community resilience, or protecting and restoring ecosystems.
dsm-firmenich, through its independent Progress Foundation, aims to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs and social innovators. If you are driving change locally or globally in Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America, this scholarship could help you scale your impact and connect with a global network of peers.
Key Details
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Eligible Countries: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America
To be taken at (country): South Africa
About this Scholarship
Level of Study: Not specified – please see official page
The dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship supports young entrepreneurs with 3–5 years of business experience, preferably those running their own enterprises. The scholarship focuses on three core areas: fighting malnutrition, strengthening community resilience, and protecting and restoring ecosystems. Scholars will attend the One Young World Summit 2026, which takes place in Cape Town from 3–6 November.
Eligibility
- Aged 18–30 (exceptions possible for older candidates with strong impact and initiative)
- Reside in Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America
- 3–5 years’ business experience, preferably as an entrepreneur
- Making a positive impact in one of the three focus areas: fighting malnutrition, strengthening community resilience, or protecting/restoring ecosystems
- Not under 18 at the time of the Summit
Number of Awards: 5
Value of Award: Fully funded (Summit access, travel, accommodation, meals, ground transport)
Duration of Award: Summit dates (3–6 November 2026), plus pre- and post-programme activities
Benefits
- Access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Hotel accommodation (31 October–8 November)
- Economy flights to and from Cape Town
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during Summit days
- Ground transport between accommodation and venue
- Pre- and post-programme activities in Cape Town
- Opportunity to join the dsm-firmenich delegation
Required Documents
- Not specified – please see official page
Award Provider: dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation
How to Apply
- Review the scholarship overview and eligibility criteria on the official page.
- Prepare your application, highlighting your impact, leadership, and alignment with the scholarship’s focus areas.
- Gather evidence of your work, such as statistics, testimonials, or media coverage.
- Complete and submit the online application form before the deadline.
👉 Visit the official scholarship page for details

