Looking for an opportunities scholarship that combines global leadership, sustainability, and entrepreneurship? The DHL Scholarship for the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy at the AFS Youth Assembly could be exactly what you need.
This fully funded program offers young changemakers from the Americas region a once in a lifetime chance to join a high impact event hosted at New York University, designed to equip future leaders with the tools to fight climate change through innovation and enterprise.
With strong support from DHL and in partnership with NYU’s Center for Global Affairs, this initiative offers more than just academic insights—it equips young participants with the practical tools, mentorship, and global connections needed to create real-world solutions to pressing climate issues.
With hands on workshops, skill building sessions, and global networking opportunities, this scholarship isn’t just an academic experience it’s a launchpad for climate conscious entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re just starting out or already working on sustainability projects in your community, this scholarship opens the door to deeper knowledge, practical support, and a stronger voice in the climate movement.
Ready to take your passion global? Read on to learn how you can become one of the selected participants for this prestigious opportunity.
More Details About DHL Scholarship for the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy at the AFS Youth Assembly
The Climate Entrepreneurship Academy, hosted by the NYU Center for Global Affairs and generously supported by DHL, is designed to empower young innovators with the tools, knowledge, and network to create startups and initiatives addressing the climate crisis.
The DHL Climate Entrepreneurship Academy is a unique opportunity embedded within the AFS Youth Assembly 2025 a prestigious international forum dedicated to nurturing young changemakers. Over the course of five impactful days in New York City, selected participants will take part in hands on sessions focused on eco business development, cross cultural collaboration, and leadership growth under the central theme: “Defying Adversity: Empowering Young Global Citizens to Lead.”
During the academy, attendees will gain valuable knowledge from global experts in climate innovation, sharpen their entrepreneurial mindset through interactive workshops, and join in peer learning with participants from diverse countries and backgrounds. This program isn’t just about ideas it’s about turning visions into real, climate-conscious ventures.
Participants will also have the opportunity to propose their own project and compete for the AFS Award for Young Global Citizens a funding prize worth up to $10,000. On top of that, they’ll earn globally recognized certificates and become part of a thriving international alumni community, opening doors to future career or academic paths in sustainability and leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the DHL x AFS Climate Change Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be between 18–35 years old by August 6, 2025
- Be a resident of a country in the Americas region, including North America, Central America, South America, or the Caribbean
- Demonstrate active involvement in sustainability, environmental, or community work
- Show interest in entrepreneurship or climate action solutions
- Be proficient in English, as all sessions will be conducted in English
- Have never attended any AFS Youth Assembly previously
- Hold one of the following travel documents:
- A valid U.S. passport, or
- A passport from a country that does not require a visa to enter the United States, or
- A valid U.S. visa (visitor/student/business categories)
Benefits
This fully funded scholarship covers all major costs related to your participation. Here’s what selected scholars will receive:
🔹 Travel Support
Reimbursement for round-trip transportation to New York City (economy class).
🔹 Accommodation & Meals
5 nights of hotel accommodation in a shared double room in New York City.
Daily breakfast provided throughout your stay.
Special dinner cruise on New York Harbor with fellow Youth Assembly delegates.
🔹 Full Program Access
Complete participation in both the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy and the AFS Youth Assembly 2025.
Admission to keynote talks, panel discussions, practical workshops, networking sessions, and cultural activities.
Opportunity to pitch your climate-focused project and compete for the AFS Award for Young Global Citizens (worth up to $10,000).
🔹 Certificates & Additional Learning
Certificate of Completion issued by New York University (NYU).
Access to the AFS Global Competence Certificate program (virtual component), focused on cross-cultural communication and global citizenship skills.
This scholarship offers not only financial coverage, but also invaluable personal growth, international networking, and the chance to launch your own impactful climate initiative on a global stage.
Requirements
Once selected, participants are expected to:
- Commit to full attendance at the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy and related Youth Assembly activities from August 6–10, 2025
- Participate in sessions actively and professionally
- Collaborate with peers on group projects or pitches
- Provide necessary documents for travel and visa purposes
- Complete pre event learning modules (if assigned) and post-event feedback surveys
- Represent the program values of inclusivity, innovation, leadership, and sustainability
Deadline
⏳ Application deadline: May 19, 2025
Due to the highly competitive nature of this scholarship, early submission is encouraged. Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
How to Apply
Ready to make a difference and become a climate leader?
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official scholarship application page on the AFS Intercultural Programs website
- Complete the online application form – You’ll be asked about your background, community involvement, goals in sustainability, and how you plan to use this opportunity
- Prepare and submit a short essay or video (depending on instructions) demonstrating your passion for climate change and entrepreneurship
- Submit your passport information or visa details to confirm eligibility for travel to the U.S.
- Upload any required documents (CV, recommendation letters, etc.)
📌 Important Tip: Be authentic in your responses. The committee is looking for individuals who are committed to making a real difference, not just applicants with a perfect resume.
This opportunities scholarship is more than just financial support it’s your gateway to becoming part of a global movement for climate action and sustainable entrepreneurship. By joining the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy at the AFS Youth Assembly, you’ll not only gain knowledge from world class mentors at NYU but also build meaningful connections with like minded youth leaders who share your commitment to creating real change.
With all program fees, accommodation, and travel expenses covered, this fully funded program is a rare chance to sharpen your leadership skills and make your voice heard on an international stage. If you’re passionate about sustainability, innovation, and making an impact in your community, don’t wait too long opportunities like this don’t come often. Submit your application before the deadline and take the first step toward becoming a climate leader the world needs.
FAQ
1. Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
To be eligible for the DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria. First, they must be between 18 and 35 years old at the start of the program, which will take place from August 6-10, 2025. Additionally, applicants must be residing in one of the countries within the Americas region, including North, Central, or South America. This scholarship is aimed at emerging leaders who are deeply passionate about sustainability, entrepreneurship, and climate action, and who have a clear drive to develop innovative solutions for climate change.
Another important eligibility requirement is that applicants must have never attended the AFS Youth Assembly before. Since the program is conducted in English, applicants must also be proficient in the language to fully engage in the workshops, sessions, and discussions. Finally, applicants should hold a valid U.S. passport, or a passport that does not require a visa for entry into the U.S., or have a valid U.S. visa as the event will be held in New York City, and a visa may be required for entry.
2. What does the scholarship cover?
The DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship is a fully-funded opportunity, covering multiple aspects of your participation. The scholarship covers all program registration fees, which include access to the full Climate Entrepreneurship Academy from August 6-10, 2025, as well as participation in the AFS Youth Assembly. This allows recipients to attend all the workshops, keynote speeches, and networking events at no cost. In addition, the scholarship offers a travel stipend, which reimburses transportation expenses for your trip to New York City.
The scholarship also includes 5 nights of accommodation in a shared double room at a hotel in New York, with breakfast provided daily. As part of the experience, you will join a special evening dinner cruise in New York Harbor with other delegates from the Youth Assembly, providing a unique opportunity to network in a relaxed, social setting. These fully-covered costs ensure that all scholarship recipients can participate without any financial barriers, making it accessible for all eligible applicants.
3. What is the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy?
The Climate Entrepreneurship Academy is a dynamic, five-day program hosted by the NYU Center for Global Affairs. It is designed to equip young leaders with the essential skills, strategies, and knowledge needed to start and sustain climate-focused businesses. The academy’s curriculum covers everything from creating innovative solutions for climate change to financing and scaling up climate-related startups. The program features interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and thematic discussions with industry experts, providing participants with the tools to tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Supported by DHL, the academy also creates a collaborative environment where participants can connect with like-minded peers and industry leaders. It’s not just about learning; it’s about applying what you learn to real-world projects. Whether you’re just beginning your entrepreneurial journey or are already working on a climate project, the Academy provides the support you need to turn your ideas into impactful ventures. Participants will walk away with both practical skills and a global network that will help them succeed in the field of climate entrepreneurship.
4. Do I need a visa to attend the program in New York City?
Yes, if you are not from a visa-exempt country, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa to attend the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy in New York City. The scholarship requires participants to have the appropriate travel documentation to enter the United States. If you already hold a valid U.S. passport or a passport from a country that does not require a visa for entry, you will not need a separate visa. However, if you are from a country that requires a visa to enter the U.S., you must apply for a U.S. visa well in advance to ensure you can attend the event.
The DHL x AFS scholarship offers a travel stipend that will reimburse participants for transportation expenses related to attending the program. However, visa costs are generally not included in this reimbursement, so be sure to check visa requirements and apply early to avoid delays. Make sure you have all your travel documents in order well before the event starts to ensure a smooth experience.
5. Are there any language requirements for this scholarship?
Yes, English proficiency is required for this scholarship. Since the entire program will be conducted in English, applicants must be able to communicate effectively in both written and spoken English. This is important as the program includes complex workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions that require active participation. Whether it’s engaging with mentors, collaborating with fellow delegates, or absorbing the content of the sessions, proficiency in English will help ensure that you get the most out of the experience.
If you are not a native English speaker, you may still be eligible as long as you have a strong command of the language. You do not need to submit a language proficiency test score, but your application should clearly demonstrate your ability to understand and engage in discussions and activities conducted in English. This will be assessed through your written application and the quality of your essay or video submission.
6. How competitive is the scholarship?
The DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship is highly competitive, as it offers a unique, fully-funded opportunity to attend a world-class program in New York City. Applicants are selected based on several factors, including their passion for sustainability, demonstrated leadership potential, and a clear commitment to making an impact on climate change through entrepreneurship. Successful applicants will also show innovation and creative thinking in their approach to solving environmental challenges.
Since this scholarship is designed for emerging leaders with the potential to shape the future of climate entrepreneurship, it’s important to submit a compelling and well-thought-out application. Focus on highlighting your previous experience, personal motivation for pursuing sustainability projects, and how this opportunity will help you grow as a future leader in the climate space.
7. What should I include in my application essay or video?
Your application essay or video is a crucial part of your application as it helps the selection committee understand your motivations, background, and vision for the future. In your essay or video, clearly explain why you are passionate about climate change and entrepreneurship. Discuss any past experiences or projects related to sustainability or entrepreneurship, and how attending the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy will help you build on these efforts. Additionally, outline your long-term goals in the climate sector and how you plan to use the knowledge gained from the academy to create meaningful impact.
Make sure your submission is authentic and highlights your unique perspective. Whether in written or video format, the essay should demonstrate your ability to think critically about the challenges we face in tackling climate change and how you intend to contribute to the solution. This is your opportunity to stand out and show the committee why you deserve this scholarship.
8. What is the deadline for application?
The deadline to apply for the DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship is May 19, 2025. It’s important to submit your application before this date to ensure it is considered. Late applications will not be accepted, so it’s recommended that you prepare your materials in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. Make sure to carefully review the application instructions, complete all required sections, and double-check your documents before submission.
The application process may take some time, especially if you need to gather additional materials like recommendation letters or passport information, so don’t wait until the last minute to apply. Early submission will also give you ample time to address any potential issues that might arise during the application process.
9. How can I apply for the scholarship?
To apply for the DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Visit the official application page on the AFS Intercultural Programs website.
- Complete the online application form, which includes personal details, an essay or video submission, your resume, and a passport copy (or other required documentation).
- Submit your completed application before the May 19, 2025 deadline.
Make sure to thoroughly review the application form and provide accurate and detailed information. Take your time with the essay or video submission as it is one of the most important parts of the process. The application page will provide clear guidelines on how to submit all the necessary materials.
10. What happens if I am selected for the scholarship?
If you are selected as a recipient of the DHL x AFS Climate Entrepreneurship Academy Scholarship, you will receive official notification and instructions for the next steps. This will include details about the travel stipend, accommodations, and how to prepare for the event. You will also be given instructions on how to finalize your travel plans to New York City, where the event will take place.
Once in New York, you will attend the Climate Entrepreneurship Academy, participate in workshops, meet fellow delegates, and have the opportunity to pitch your ideas for climate-focused ventures. After completing the program, you will receive certificates from NYU and AFS, and you will be part of a global network of changemakers dedicated to tackling climate change. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience, build relationships, and make a meaningful impact in the field of climate entrepreneurship.