Schaeffler India has announced the winners of its 'Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program' for 2024, a program designed to support social entrepreneurs creating sustainable solutions. The program, a key part of Schaeffler India’s CSR initiative HOPE, awarded fellowships to ten projects focused on areas like environmental sustainability and technology in the social sector. The winners received a grant and mentorship at IIMA Ventures.

This is the third year of the fellowship program, which is open to applicants between 18 and 35 years old from various institutions, including startups and non-profit organisations. The program received over 276 applications from across India, with 78 applicants shortlisted after a rigorous screening process that included prototype demonstrations.

Winning projects

The ten winning projects were each awarded a fellowship grant of INR 1.5 lakh. The winners also received a 24-week mentorship program at IIMA Ventures, the startup incubator founded by the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. The program also provides winners with access to Schaeffler India's network of industry partners.

“At Schaeffler India, we are dedicated to advancing motion to foster a sustainable, efficient, and resilient world. The remarkable response to this year’s Social Innovator Fellowship Program highlights the potential of India’s youth to be agents of transformative change. Sustainability and innovation are inherently linked, and through this initiative, we are committed to nurturing young innovators who will help shape the future of India, where both people and the planet can thrive.”

Company's HOPE CSR initiative

Schaeffler India’s commitment to supporting social innovation is a core part of its HOPE CSR initiative. Schaeffler India continues to create programs that empower communities, including promoting STEM education, supporting water conservation, and investing in community health projects.

The awards ceremony included Munish Bhatia, Co-Founder, India Accelerator & CEO, Bharat Ventures, and Praveen Bhadada, CXO Advisor and Mentor. Schaeffler India leadership also attended the event.