The EXCELerator program is an intensive 6-month capacity-building and leadership development training designed for young individuals with innovative environmental project ideas aimed at addressing ecosystem, wildlife, community, cultural, or livelihood challenges. These project ideas can range from early-stage concepts to ongoing initiatives with the potential for scaling up.
Accepted projects can be implemented globally, addressing a wide range of environmental issues. In past editions, we’ve seen diverse projects, from resolving elephant-human conflicts in Kenya to educating schoolchildren about recycling in Ecuador, restoring mangrove forests in the Philippines, and reintroducing manatees in Guadeloupe. During the program, participants have the opportunity to refine their project ideas, making them practical and impactful.
Throughout the program, participants acquire the technical knowledge and skills necessary to develop, implement, and communicate their project ideas. They also connect with a diverse cohort of participants, each working on projects in different contexts and with different focuses. Peer learning and support are central to the program, as we believe that young people possess valuable knowledge, experiences, and ideas that can drive positive change.
The seventh edition of the EXCELerator program will run from November 2023 to April 2024. The program is fully virtual and free of charge, offering two completion options: the EXCELerator LIVE program or the EXCELerator FLEX program.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: Participants must be 35 years of age or younger at the start of the program (November 2, 2023).
- Project: Applicants should have a project idea within the environmental field, whether in its early stages or with the potential to scale up.
- Dedication: Participants must commit the time and energy needed to develop their project idea and complete the training.
- Technology: Access to a computer and a reliable internet connection is required to participate in the program’s learning platform and view recorded sessions (for both programs) or live sessions (for the EXCELerator LIVE program).
Timeline:
- Application Period: September 4 to October 8, 2023.
- Review Period: October 9 to October 22, 2023
- Selection Period: Results will be communicated to selected and non-selected participants by the week of October 23, 2023.
- Program Start: Officially commences in November 2023, with the EXCELerator LIVE program’s live kick-off session on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 12:30 UTC.
For More Information,
Visit the Official Webpage.
Application Deadline: October 8, 2023.
