Pune, July 31, 2025: Schaeffler India has launched the fourth edition of its Social Innovator Fellowship Program under its flagship CSR initiative HOPE. The program aims to support and nurture young innovators aged 18 to 35 who are developing scalable and sustainable solutions to address pressing environmental and societal challenges.
As part of the initiative, 10 selected innovators will each receive a grant of ₹1.75 lakh and participate in a 24-week hybrid mentorship program delivered by IIMA Ventures. The program offers tools, guidance, and a collaborative ecosystem to help fellows accelerate their impact and scale their innovations. Fellows will also benefit from access to Schaeffler’s innovation community and its extensive network of partners.
Applications are open to individuals, groups, institutions, and both for-profit and non-profit organizations working in fields such as environmental sustainability, renewable energy, carbon neutrality, circular economy, natural resource management, and application of technology in the social sector. Applicants are expected to have a functioning prototype, a defined target audience, and a roadmap for scalability and commercial viability.
Speaking about the program, Harsha Kadam, Managing Director & CEO, Schaeffler India, said, “At Schaeffler India, we truly believe in innovation and development, and we have been investing in inclusive and sustainable programs. Through structured initiatives such as HOPE, we aim to empower and nurture visionary young innovators with a pioneering spirit who are developing technology-driven solutions for social sectors and environmental issues, making a meaningful difference through their unique approaches. Schaeffler aims to be both an enabler and catalyst in solving these issues, affirming its belief in innovation as a force for equitable progress.”
Shibi Mathew, Head of HR and CSR, Schaeffler India, added, “We are deeply committed to advancing the meaningful progress of our communities. We proudly announce the launch of the Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program for 2025, with the primary aim of harnessing and supporting the pioneering spirit of young and passionate innovators across India. This program offers a remarkable opportunity for talented individuals to bring improvements to social and ecological issues through their innovative solutions. We eagerly await the participation of outstanding leaders who will demonstrate a strong commitment to developing transformative solutions, resulting in more resilient systems, empowered communities, and positively impacted lives.”
The application process is open from July 30 to August 30, 2025. Applicants can submit their entries via the program website hosted on Buddy4Study, including required documentation such as a project video, optional idea pitch deck, Aadhaar card, and photograph.
The initiative aligns with Schaeffler’s broader CSR mission embodied in the HOPE program, which focuses on four pillars: Healthcare, Occupational Skilling for Employability, Preservation of Heritage and Environment, and Empowerment of Society. The fellowship represents a continued commitment by Schaeffler India to support inclusive growth and sustainable development through innovation.
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