Applications are now open for the next cohort of beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, designed to empower young innovators to address environmental challenges in their communities and beyond. Organizers announced that 1,000 fellows will be selected for the program, which begins in May 2026. Official applications started on September 17, 2025.
“We are looking for ambitious, dedicated and passionate individuals, committed to building a sustainable future through eco-innovation,” the organizers stated. The fellowship targets applicants between the ages of 16 and 28, residing in one of the participating countries for the duration of the program.
Applicants are not required to have prior entrepreneurial experience but must demonstrate passion and drive to tackle environmental problems. A good oral and written command of English is also required.
The application process is structured into three sections and takes about 30 to 40 minutes to complete. The first section covers written submissions, where candidates provide basic details, outline their environmental ideas, share their learning and financial needs, complete a self-assessment test, and upload a scanned passport or national ID card.
The second section requires a video submission. Candidates must record up to a three-minute interview through the application platform, discussing the environmental challenge they wish to solve and their proposed idea. “We will not consider applications without a recorded interview video,” the organizers confirmed.
The final section is optional and applies only to those seeking financial assistance. This requires applicants to provide a reference from a non-family member who is employed, along with an income declaration outlining monthly income sources.
The beVisioneers program, launched in 2023, is implemented by The DO School Fellowships and funded by Mercedes-Benz. It equips young people with resources to build sustainable projects through a 12-month intensive program requiring at least 24 hours per month. Fellows receive award-winning innovation training through online modules, Local Hub gatherings, a Regional Summit, coaching sessions, one-on-one mentoring, and peer support.
Participants can apply for project scholarships of up to €20,000 to support their environmental initiatives. After completing the first year, fellows join a long-term community focused on scaling local projects and strengthening leadership skills.
Interested candidates can apply at https://applications.bevisioneers.world/courses/course/11-bevisioneers-mercedes-benz-fellowship.