beVisioneers – The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship

Applications are now open for beVisioneers – The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship Cohort 4, a fully funded programme supporting young eco-entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, and global exposure.

beVisioneers – The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship has officially opened applications for its fourth cohort, inviting young changemakers with environmentally focused ideas to apply for one of the most comprehensive youth sustainability programmes available today. This fully funded fellowship is designed to support youth-led projects that aim to address pressing environmental challenges while creating measurable, real-world impact.

The programme targets aspiring eco-entrepreneurs who are ready to transform innovative ideas into viable projects or ventures. Through a structured blend of mentorship, venture coaching, and financial support, beVisioneers equips participants with the skills and confidence needed to lead sustainable change in their communities and beyond.

Empowering the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders

beVisioneers was created in response to a growing need for youth-driven solutions to global environmental challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable resource use demand fresh thinking and bold action—qualities that young innovators increasingly bring to the forefront.

The Fellowship provides participants with the opportunity to refine their ideas, build strong project foundations, and scale their impact with the backing of an internationally recognised programme supported by Mercedes-Benz. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the fellowship emphasizes practical implementation, ensuring that projects progress from concept to execution.

What the Fellowship Offers

Participants selected for Cohort 4 will benefit from a wide range of structured and flexible support mechanisms designed to fit around studies, work, or other commitments.

Key Programme Benefits Include:

Personalised one-on-one mentoring, tailored to each fellow’s project and development needs
A manageable monthly time commitment of approximately 24 hours, making the programme accessible to students and working youth
Venture coaching and project acceleration, focused on turning ideas into scalable solutions
Needs-based financial support to ensure equitable participation regardless of background
Access to project scholarships of up to €20,000 to support the development and implementation of environmental initiatives
A hybrid learning model, combining virtual sessions with in-person engagements
Fully funded travel, accommodation, and related expenses for key fellowship events

This comprehensive structure allows fellows to focus on building impact without the financial or logistical barriers that often limit access to global opportunities.

Learning Through a Hybrid Global Model

The fellowship uses a hybrid format that blends online learning with in-person collaboration. Virtual sessions provide flexibility and enable participants from different countries to connect, while physical gatherings foster deeper collaboration, peer learning, and exposure to global sustainability networks.

This model ensures that fellows not only gain technical and entrepreneurial skills but also build cross-cultural connections with other young leaders committed to environmental change.

Who Can Apply

beVisioneers – The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship is open to young people who meet the following eligibility criteria:

Aged between 16 and 28 years at the time of application
Possess at least B1-level proficiency in English, ensuring effective participation in programme activities
Must be residing, studying, or working in one of the eligible countries for the full duration of the fellowship

Eligible African Countries:

Kenya
Nigeria
Rwanda
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
Zimbabwe

Applicants from these countries are encouraged to apply if they have an environmental idea or project they are passionate about developing.

Types of Projects Supported

The fellowship supports a broad range of environmentally focused initiatives, including but not limited to:

Climate action and emissions reduction
Renewable energy and energy efficiency
Waste reduction and circular economy solutions
Sustainable agriculture and food systems
Water conservation and environmental protection
Environmental education and community awareness

What matters most is that the project demonstrates clear environmental impact, strong motivation from the applicant, and the potential for growth or replication.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Youth are increasingly recognised as key drivers of sustainable development, yet many lack access to the resources, mentorship, and funding needed to turn ideas into action. beVisioneers addresses this gap directly by providing long-term, structured support rather than one-off grants or short-term training.

By investing in youth-led solutions, the fellowship contributes to a future where sustainability is driven from the ground up—by those who will inherit the planet and are most motivated to protect it.

Application Deadline

Applications for beVisioneers – The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship Cohort 4 close on:

📅 26 January 2026

Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply early and prepare thoughtful submissions that clearly articulate their environmental vision and commitment to change.

A Platform for Lasting Impact

For young changemakers across Africa, beVisioneers represents more than a fellowship—it is a platform for leadership, innovation, and environmental responsibility. With mentorship, funding, and global exposure, Cohort 4 participants will be equipped to turn bold ideas into meaningful action.

Young people with a passion for sustainability and the ambition to create real environmental impact are encouraged to apply and take the next step in their journey as eco-entrepreneurs.