The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, branded as beVisioneers, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young changemakers to address pressing environmental challenges in their communities and beyond. Funded by Mercedes-Benz and implemented by The DO School Fellowships, this program is a beacon for innovative thinkers aged 16-28 who aspire to create planet-positive solutions. With a focus on equipping participants with comprehensive resources, award-winning training, and a robust support network, the Fellowship provides an unparalleled platform for young eco-entrepreneurs.
Since its inception in 2023, beVisioneers has rapidly grown in scale, reflecting the urgency of global environmental issues and the need for actionable solutions. For the 2025 cohort, the Fellowship seeks to nurture the talents of 1000 dedicated individuals from across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America, offering them a fully-funded opportunity to transform their visionary ideas into impactful projects.
Program Highlights For Mercedes-Benz Fellowship
- First-Year Intensive Program
- Innovation Training: Fellows receive structured, award-winning training through online modules, empowering them to refine their ideas and develop actionable plans.
- Local Hub Gatherings and Regional Summits: These in-person and virtual events foster community building, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among fellows.
- Mentorship and Peer Support: Access to venture coaches, 1:1 mentoring, and peer networks provides personalized guidance and a supportive ecosystem.
- Project Scholarships: Fellows who demonstrate progress in their projects can apply for scholarships to further their development.
- Tailored Support in Years 2 and 3
- For advanced projects, fellows may join the Pioneer Launchpad, a specialized program designed to equip participants with the skills and independence needed to scale their ventures.
- Ongoing opportunities for leadership development, venture learning, and network expansion are available for projects at various stages.
- Fellows can apply for additional project scholarships to further accelerate their ideas.
Eligibility Criteria for Mercedes-Benz Fellowship
To qualify for the Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be between 16-28 years old at the time of application (born between October 14, 2008, and January 13, 1996).
- Reside in one of the 68 participating countries, including India, the United States, Kenya, Germany, and South Africa.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, as the program is conducted entirely in this language.
- Discover More Fellowships
Application Process
The application process is structured to identify ambitious and innovative individuals who have the potential to make a meaningful impact. It consists of three main sections:
- Written Application
- Applicants provide basic personal information and details about their environmental challenge and proposed solution.
- They outline their learning and financial needs and complete a self-assessment test.
- A scanned copy of their passport or national ID is required for verification.
- Video Interview
- Through the program’s application platform, candidates record a three-minute video explaining their passion for tackling an environmental issue and their proposed idea.
- This section is mandatory and plays a crucial role in the selection process.
- Optional Financial Support Application
- Applicants requesting financial assistance must submit a testimonial form from a non-family member who can verify their living situation.
- Proof of income, such as bank statements or an income declaration form, must also be provided.
Fellowship Benefits
The beVisioneers Fellowship offers a host of benefits that make it an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring environmental innovators:
- Global Recognition: The Fellowship is backed by Mercedes-Benz, a globally recognized brand, lending credibility and visibility to participants and their projects.
- Comprehensive Training: From innovation modules to leadership development, fellows gain skills that are applicable across industries and sectors.
- Access to Mentors and Coaches: With support from industry experts and experienced peers, participants are never alone on their journey.
- Financial Support: Scholarships ensure that financial barriers do not hinder the progress of deserving projects.
- Networking Opportunities: Fellows become part of an international community of like-minded innovators, opening doors to collaborations and future ventures.
Why Apply?
Environmental challenges like climate change, pollution, and resource depletion are among the most pressing issues of our time. The beVisioneers Fellowship is a call to action for young leaders ready to step up and create impactful solutions. Whether you have a nascent idea or a project already in progress, this Fellowship provides the support and resources needed to make a difference. By joining, you’ll not only develop your project but also grow as a leader and innovator, equipped with the skills to drive change in your community and beyond.
Moreover, the program’s multi-year structure ensures that fellows receive sustained support, enabling them to refine, scale, and sustain their initiatives. The opportunity to work alongside peers from diverse backgrounds fosters a collaborative spirit and cross-cultural understanding, enriching the overall experience.
The beVisioneers: Mercedes-Benz Fellowship represents a unique opportunity for young, passionate individuals to turn their environmental ideas into reality. By participating, fellows join a movement of innovators committed to building a sustainable future. With world-class training, mentorship, and financial support, the Fellowship equips participants with everything they need to make a lasting impact.
As the program prepares to welcome its largest cohort yet in 2025, this is your chance to be part of a transformative journey. Whether you’re driven by the desire to combat climate change, reduce waste, or protect natural ecosystems, the Fellowship provides the platform and resources to amplify your efforts.
Applications close on January 12, 2025—don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference. Apply today and take the first step toward becoming a leader in environmental innovation. Your journey to a sustainable future starts here. For more details, visit bevisioneers.world.
FAQs
1. What is the beVisioneers Fellowship?
A program by Mercedes-Benz supporting young innovators tackling environmental challenges.
2. Who can apply?
Anyone aged 16-28 from 68 eligible countries, proficient in English.
3. What are the key benefits?
Training, mentorship, scholarships, networking, and global recognition.
4. How do I apply?
Submit an online application with a project proposal, video, and optional financial aid request.
5. What is the application deadline?
January 12, 2025.
6. What support is available after the first year?
Advanced training, project scholarships, and expanded leadership opportunities.
