The Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program is a future-forward initiative of Schaeffler India to recognize and reward individuals who are developing unique sustainable solutions that have the potential to positively impact society.

Why participate in Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program 2024?

The Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program distinguishes itself through its seamless integration of financial support with the capacity for substantial societal change. This program carries the following distinct aspects:

  • Encouraging social entrepreneurship
  • Become investor ready
  • Embracing risks and experimentation
  • Amplifying impact through networks
  • Catalyzing systemic change
  • Bridging financial gaps
  • Flexibility and adaptability

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should belong to the age group of 18 to 35 years (as on 1st July 2024)

Open for individuals, groups of individuals, organizations of profit or non-profit both across India

Important Note

Early-stage startups or NGOs with functioning prototype can participate

An entry must not just be a concept, idea, or mock-up and needs to fulfill the following six requirements:

  • Clear target market or audience
  • Addressing clear need, problem, or opportunity
  • Potential to scale and positively impact people
  • Economical and sustainable
  • Commercial viability
  • Prototype

Should be a resident of India

The project must not be an established commercial venture

Participants also need to submit entries describing their work in the form of an idea pitch deck and a video that can be uploaded on the website.

The project must be related to any of the following categories:

  • Environment Sustainability
  • Renewable Energy
  • Carbon Neutrality
  • Circular Economy
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Application of Technology in Social Sector

Awards

Each of the 10 winning projects will be granted an award of INR 1.5 Lakh.

A 24-week hybrid mentorship opportunity at the prestigious IIMA Ventures, IIM Ahmedabad, to help the winners further develop and scale their solutions.

Access to Schaeffler India network & partners

Entry to a fellow community of peers

Application Process

02

Fill in personal details and answer the questions asked

03

Submit an idea pitch deck and video (90-120 seconds) describing the ideas/projects

Fellow Selection Process

A multi-stage selection process will determine the winners of Social Innovator Fellowship Program 2024. The selection stages are mentioned below:

All eligible applications will be reviewed and scored basis the following criteria:

  • Clear target market or audience
  • Addressing clear need, problem, or opportunity
  • Potential to scale and positively impact people
  • Economical and sustainable
  • Commercial viability
  • Prototype

Telephonic interview and document verification

A virtual interview round with the Schaeffler India team

A project pitch presentation to Jury panel & leaders (organized by Schaeffler India team) and final interview

Important Dates (Timeline of Activities)

  • Online application opening date: July 15, 2024
  • Last date of submission of online applications: August 15, 2024
  • Fellow selection process: September 15, 2024 (Tentative)
  • Fellow announcement and induction to online/residential mentoring program at partner institution: October 2024 (Tentative)