Call for Applications - Young Founders Program 2023

 Application deadline: August 13, 2023

The Young Founders Program is an exciting 6-month fellowship designed to empower outstanding young entrepreneurs from emerging markets. This transformative initiative brings together ambitious leaders from all around the world, united in their pursuit of entrepreneurial greatness and sustainable impact. Learn more here.

Eligibility

To participate in this life-changing opportunity, aspiring entrepreneurs should meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship or residency in a developing or emerging country.
• Launching a for-profit company focused on developing or emerging markets within the last five years
• Possession of a scalable business model with either generated revenue or secured first-round external funding
• Disruptive qualities that can elevate the industry's quality, impact, or inclusiveness.
• Proficiency in English
• Availability to attend the digital kick-off conference and actively participate in program activities for six months

Benefits

• 5-day conference in Berlin and a 6-month remote program, connecting entrepreneurs from all over the globe.

• Mentorship: Receive invaluable guidance and insights from successful entrepreneurs or investors who will serve as your sparring partners.

• Peer Learning: Engage in knowledge-sharing and mutual support with other accomplished young founders within the cohort.

• Expert Sessions: Delve into in-depth sessions with esteemed experts, covering relevant topics to enhance your entrepreneurial journey.

• International Community: Unlock new business opportunities by becoming part of the extensive Westerwelle Foundation network and connecting with program alumni, partners, and other members.

• Berlin Conference: For the top 10 participants, experience the vibrant Berlin Startup Ecosystem through a fully funded 5-day conference, including networking, workshops, and pitching to investors.

Programme Plan

The Westerwelle Young Founders Program (YFP) unfolds in three transformative stages:

1. Kick-Off Conference: A dynamic two-day digital kick-off conference will take place on September 4 and 5, 2023, setting the stage for the journey ahead.

2. Remote Program: From September to February, Young Founders will embark on six months of personalized support, including mentorship, monthly peer learning sessions, expert workshops, and networking opportunities with corporate entities and investors.

3. Berlin Conference: The ten most exceptional Young Founders will receive an exclusive invitation to the five-day conference in Berlin in May 2024. This event is a unique opportunity to pitch to investors, attend workshops, engage in networking events, and explore the German startup scene.

Application Process

Ready to take your entrepreneurial venture to new heights? Follow these simple steps to apply for the Young Founders Program:

1. Prepare your startup pitch deck.
2. Gather basic financial information, such as revenues and funding details.
3. Have your LinkedIn profile and/or CV at hand.
4. Complete the application process, which will take approximately 20 minutes.

Remember, only complete applications will be considered for this exceptional opportunity. Seize the moment and unleash your entrepreneurial potential!