Are you a passionate entrepreneur from a developing or emerging country, eager to take your business to the global stage? The Westerwelle Young Founders Programme Autumn 2024 is now open for applications—offering a fully funded international fellowship for dynamic, impact-driven business leaders from across the globe.

This prestigious Leadership Program in Germany is not just another fellowship. It’s a carefully curated six-month journey of mentorship, collaboration, exposure, and high-impact learning designed to accelerate the entrepreneurial potential of young changemakers. The program connects young founders from emerging markets with top-class mentors, investors, and like-minded peers while building lasting global networks.

If you’re an early-stage founder looking to scale your for-profit business, and if you’re committed to creating sustainable and transformative change in your region, this opportunity could be your gateway to long-term entrepreneurial success and global recognition.

Program Details

Host Country:

Germany

Program Location:

Berlin (onsite) and global (virtual)

Program Dates:

• Kick-off Conference (Virtual): First week of September 2024

• Six-Month Fellowship: September 2024 – February 2025

• In-Person Berlin Conference: Spring 2025 (for top 10 finalists)

Host Organization:

Westerwelle Foundation

Program Themes or Focus Areas:

• Entrepreneurial Leadership

• Innovation and Impact in Emerging Markets

• Sustainable Business Development

• Global Startup Ecosystem Integration

The Westerwelle Foundation is globally recognized for nurturing inclusive entrepreneurship and promoting mutual economic growth. The Young Founders Programme (YFP) embodies the foundation’s mission by empowering entrepreneurs in developing economies with tools, exposure, and connections to thrive.

Benefits

Selected fellows of the Westerwelle Young Founders Programme Autumn 2024 will receive comprehensive support and unique international exposure. Key benefits include:

• A two-day digital Kick-off Conference at the start of the fellowship in September

• A dedicated personal mentor from the international startup ecosystem

• Access to an alumni buddy for continued peer support

• Monthly peer learning sessions and expert workshops

• Invitations to exclusive networking events and investor meetings

• Opportunities for collaboration with global corporates and investors

• Visibility across international media and partner networks

• For the top 10 participants:

  • A fully funded 5-day Berlin Conference

  • Pitching opportunity before top global investors

  • Insights into Germany’s startup scene

  • Hands-on mentoring and international exposure

This is more than a Training Program—it’s a launchpad for global entrepreneurship rooted in values of equality, sustainability, and innovation.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure a cohort of high-potential and impact-driven entrepreneurs, the Westerwelle Young Founders Programme has set clear eligibility criteria:

• You must have founded a for-profit startup within the last five years

• Your company must focus on emerging or developing markets

• Your business must be operational, generating revenue or have secured at least one round of external funding

• You must demonstrate the impact of your business in your local ecosystem or broader market

• Proficiency in English is required, as all communication and programming will be conducted in English

• You must commit to the full six-month virtual fellowship

• Availability to attend the fully funded Berlin Conference (if selected among the top 10)

This program welcomes young founders from all emerging and developing countries, regardless of industry. Whether you’re working in fintech, healthtech, edtech, agriculture, energy, or sustainability, what matters most is the impact and scalability of your venture.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must complete a structured application process. Follow the steps below to submit a strong application for the Westerwelle Foundation Fellowship 2024:

1. Visit the official Westerwelle Foundation application portal

2. Fill out the online application form completely

3. Upload your startup pitch deck (PDF format preferred)

4. Include essential financials such as current revenue, growth metrics, or funding rounds

5. Share your LinkedIn profile and/or attach a professional CV

6. Thoughtfully respond to each application question—ensure your answers reflect your mission, market insight, and entrepreneurial journey

7. If you experience technical issues, contact: office@westerwelle-foundation.com

Make sure your application is thorough, well-written, and aligned with the goals of the Young Founders Programme. Show how your work creates measurable change and how this international fellowship can catalyze your next stage of growth.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Westerwelle Young Founders Programme Autumn 2024 is:

Sunday, 11 August 2024 at 23:59 CET

No late applications will be accepted, so prepare your documents and submit early.