Applications are officially open for the 2026 DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program, an international initiative that connects bright postgraduate business students with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across emerging markets.
Designed as an eight-month immersive experience, the program is a win-win: it sharpens students’ business skills while helping SMEs unlock access to global markets.
This fellowship isn’t just another academic opportunity—it’s a chance to be part of something truly transformative.
Over the course of the program, fellows gain real-world consulting experience, mentorship from global experts, and the satisfaction of contributing to sustainable business growth in developing economies.
A Collaboration Built for Real Impact
The initiative is a joint effort between the Global Business School Network (GBSN) and DHL, one of the world’s leading logistics companies.
Together, they’ve built a bridge between academia and enterprise—where learning meets impact.
Through this partnership, SMEs benefit from international trade expertise that can help them reach new markets, while students get hands-on exposure to global business challenges.
It’s an opportunity to turn classroom knowledge into real change.
Why It’s a Game Changer for African SMEs
Across Africa, many SMEs face barriers when trying to compete internationally—from limited trade knowledge to logistical challenges.
This fellowship offers practical solutions to those problems.
Selected businesses receive direct support from postgraduate students who bring fresh insights, strategic thinking, and data-driven solutions to the table.
The result? Local businesses are better equipped to explore export opportunities, boost competitiveness, and plug into international value chains.
Who Can Apply
The program is open to motivated and globally minded graduate students. To qualify, applicants must:
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Be enrolled in an MBA, MSc, Master’s, or PhD program at a participating GBSN member school by the start of the fellowship.
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Commit to the full 8-month program, starting in March 2025.
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Be available for 12 to 15 hours per month of engagement.
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Have strong English skills (Spanish or Portuguese required for Latin American placements).
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Possess work experience, analytical skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset geared toward international collaboration.
What Fellows Get in Return
Beyond the experience of helping a real business grow, participants receive:
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Pairing with an SME from countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.
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Mentorship from DHL professionals.
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Access to DHL’s Certified International Trade learning modules.
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Networking sessions, virtual workshops, and talks from global industry leaders.
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Lifetime membership in a global alumni network that connects fellows from every cohort.
The 2026 Cohort’s Reach
This year’s cohort spans across South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Brazil, Mexico, Ecuador, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Ukraine, Chile, and El Salvador.
The program’s footprint continues to expand, underscoring its commitment to connecting businesses from developing regions with global trade opportunities.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a real impact in global trade and gain invaluable international experience, here’s what you’ll need to submit:
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A professional headshot
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A 2-page résumé or CV
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A 2-minute video introducing yourself and explaining your motivation for joining the fellowship
To begin your application, visit the official DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship application portal and follow the instructions.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
For students, this is more than a line on a résumé—it’s a chance to shape your future while helping businesses thrive.
For SMEs, it’s a doorway to new markets, new insights, and new possibilities.
In a world where international trade can feel out of reach for smaller enterprises, programs like this one are helping level the playing field—one partnership at a time.