The USA is calling on all the young entrepreneurs from around the world to make an impact and change for a positive cause. Attention, aspiring leaders and changemakers! The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program is back, and the application window is officially open. If you’re a passionate entrepreneur from Latin America, the Caribbean, or Canada, this is your chance to take your ventures to new heights. But act fast – the deadline to apply is June 5, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET.
What is YLAI Fellowship?
The YLAI Fellowship is a remarkable chance for young entrepreneurs to enhance their leadership and business abilities. Through the Young Entrepreneurs program, participants can gain practical experience, boost the growth of their businesses, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Since 2015, over 1,750 Fellows from the Americas have benefited from this innovative program, establishing connections, obtaining funding, and having a lasting influence.
Here’s what you can expect as a YLAI Fellow:
A Four-Week Professional Placement
The YLAI Fellowship Program will place you at a U.S.-based entrepreneurial organization in your business sector, where you will collaborate with your host on an Entrepreneurial Leadership Action Plan (E-LAP) tailored to growing your venture.
The YLAI Entrepreneurial Leadership Curriculum
This curriculum, created by IREX and Arizona State University, blends technical entrepreneurship training with leadership development. It provides you with the resources you need to establish and accomplish your entrepreneurial aspirations through your E-LAP involvement.
Post-Fellowship Sustained Engagement
Beyond the Fellowship program, participants can continue their professional growth through: * Ongoing training and advancement opportunities; * mentoring guidance; * Networking events to connect with professionals; * Alumni activities to stay engaged with the Fellowship community; * A potential opportunity to host a U.S. partner in your country through the Outbound Exchange Program
Financial Provisions
The YLAI Fellowship is a fully sponsored program by the U.S. Government that includes:
Assistance with obtaining a J-1 visa (without dependents)
Travel expenses to and within the U.S.
Housing and meal allowances
Health insurance coverage
Access to the YLAI Entrepreneurial Leadership Curriculum and a professional placement opportunity
Eligibiity Criteria
Eligibility Requirements for YLAI Fellowship Program:
Age: Between 25 and 35 years old as of January 1, 2025
Citizenship: Citizen and resident of a participating country (refer to the list provided)Visa: Eligible for a U.S. J-1 visa
Business/Venture Experience: Owner/operator of a successful business or social venture for at least two years
Nationality: Not a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or government employee
Language Proficiency: Fluent in written, spoken, and read English
Selection Criteria
The YLAI Fellowship Program is a competition based on merit. Experts in the region and in your field will review applications. If you make it to the semifinalist round, you will be interviewed. The selection committee will consider these factors: – Your experience and knowledge as an entrepreneur; – Your commitment to helping your community, mentoring others, or volunteering; – How your goals align with the program’s objectives – Your leadership skills, dedication to your business’s success, positive mindset, drive, and persistence
How to Apply
Submit your application online via YLAI’s website. * Ensure you have a device with internet access. * If you need accommodations for a disability, contact apply.ylaifellowship@irex.org.
Application Tips: * Save your application and return to it as often as needed. Complete all questions in English, and provide original responses. Draft your responses offline, then paste them into the application. Only fully completed applications submitted through the official YLAI website will be reviewed.
For more details, you can visit the official page.
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