The YLAI Fellowship Program in the USA for 2024-25 is a fantastic opportunity for young entrepreneurs who want to develop projects in their home countries. This program is open to non-US citizens who are between 25 and 35 years old and live in eligible participating countries. It’s important to note that US citizens and US government employees cannot apply. The program offers a housing and meal stipend, health benefits, a waiver for application fees, and covers round-trip travel expenses between the US and your home country.
Participating in the YLAI Entrepreneurial Leadership program allows you to work on an international stage and grow both personally and professionally. The main goal of this fellowship is to empower young entrepreneurs, helping them develop and implement innovative ideas that can drive social and economic development in their communities. Since it started in 2015, the program has provided valuable leadership and professional experience to participants across the US. Through a combination of a leadership curriculum and personalized placements, you’ll be able to create action plans that you can execute once you return home.
This fully funded fellowship is designed to help you build professional networks, establish important connections, and form long-lasting partnerships with investors. These relationships can bring significant investments and support for your entrepreneurial projects. The YLAI curriculum includes both online and in-person coursework focused on technical training and professional development, which will aid you in reaching your leadership goals. Additionally, a four-day welcome workshop in the US will introduce you to other fellows and familiarize you with community guidelines and program policies.
The YLAI exchange program also provides opportunities to collaborate with US partners, engage in ongoing professional development, participate in alumni activities, and maintain communication with mentors even after the program ends. Moreover, you can invite your US host to visit your home country through the Outbound Exchange Program, where they can share their entrepreneurial expertise with your community. This initiative aims to help local citizens fully realize their region’s economic potential.
By participating in the YLAI Fellowship Program, you’ll gain invaluable experience, skills, and connections that can help you drive positive change and innovation in your home country. It’s a unique chance to grow as an entrepreneur and leader, with the support and guidance of an international community dedicated to making a difference.
Scholarship Outline
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host Establishment: YLAI (Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative).
- Duration: 4 Weeks.
Scholarship Provision
- No application fees.
- J-1 visa support.
- Round-trip travel from home country to the US and back.
- 4 weeks of professional placement with a host organization.
- Health benefit support.
- Housing stipend.
- Meal stipend.
Eligibility & Criteria for Qualification
- Be between 25 and 35 years old by January 1, 2025.
- Be a resident or citizen of one of the eligible countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Maarten, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela.
- Be eligible for a U.S. J-1 visa.
- Have a successful business or social venture for at least two years.
- Not be a U.S. Government employee.
- Not be a U.S. resident or citizen.
- Be proficient in reading, speaking, and writing English.
- Applicants with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.
- No discrimination based on age, sex, religion, nationality, etc.
How To Apply
- Apply through the 2024 Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative Application.
- Answer all questions in English.
- Review your application form carefully before submission.
Check UAL International Postgraduate Scholarships in UK 2024
Selection Criteria
- Professional experience and knowledge.
- Commitment to positively contribute to your country.
- Commitment to business development.
- Goals that match program objectives.
- Leadership capabilities.
Deadline
- The deadline is June 5, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET.