Pune | August 10, 2023: Leading motion technology company Schaeffler India has launched Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program to recognize and reward visionary individuals who are developing unique and impactful solutions that can make a positive difference to society at scale. The fellowship grants, each worth INR 1 Lakh, will be awarded to 10 exceptional projects that demonstrate a clear target market or audience, address specific needs or opportunities, have the potential to scale and positively impact people, are economical and sustainable, and possess commercial viability.
The program is open to individuals, groups, institutions, and both for-profit and non-profit organizations across India. The applicants are required to present a functioning prototype which addresses critical challenges in areas such as Environment Sustainability, Natural Resource Management, Renewable Energy, Carbon Neutrality, Circular Economy, and Application of Technology in the Social Sector, including Robotics and Drones.
Buddy4Study India foundation is the implementation partner for the fellowship programme. More programme details can be reached here: http://schaefflerindia-socialinnovators.com/
Commenting on the announcement, Mr Harsha Kadam, Managing Director and CEO, Schaeffler India, said, "At Schaeffler India, we firmly believe that innovation and development are crucial drivers of growth, but we recognize that equitable innovation holds the key to fostering inclusive growth. We are delighted to witness numerous passionate ideas supported by technology, with the potential to create a positive impact on our society. As we observe technology-driven disruptions promoting growth and holistic development all around us, we are fully aware of their significance. This awareness has led us to unveil this platform, dedicated to nurturing and empowering visionary individuals who aim to make a meaningful difference through their innovative solutions."
Mr. Santanu Ghoshal, Vice President HR and Head of Sustainability, Schaeffler India, said, "At Schaeffler India, we are deeply committed to advancing the prosperity and progress of our communities. As we proudly announce the launch of the Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program for 2023, our primary aim is to harness and support 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 selected fellows will not only receive the fellowship grants but also get a unique 24-week hybrid mentorship opportunity at the prestigious Centre for Innovation Incubation & Entrepreneurship, IIM Ahmedabad. This mentorship will help the winners further develop and scale their solutions and access Schaeffler India's extensive network and partners. Additionally, they will become part of a vibrant community of like-minded peers, fostering collaboration and collective growth.
Applicants can apply for the program starting from August 10, 2023, until September 10, 2023, by filling out the online application form and submitting the required documents, including a video describing their project, an idea pitch deck, Aadhaar Card, and a passport-sized photograph. The selection process will involve multiple stages, including reviews, telephonic interviews, virtual interviews with the Schaeffler India team, and a project pitch presentation to a jury panel and leaders.
