US Embassy in Cuba announces call for scholarships for entrepreneurs

US Embassy in Cuba announces call for scholarships for entrepreneurs

The United States Embassy in Cuba announced the start of registration for the Young American Leaders of Initiatives (YLAI) professional exchange program.

On an annual basis, the US Government promotes this scholarship for around 280 young entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs from 37 countries in Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada, which are combined with companies and other organizations.

During all-expense-paid training sessions in the US, fellows develop new skills, share best practices, and forge business ties to move their ventures forward.

The YLAI initiative has been underway since 2015, and since then more than 750 fellows have expanded their leadership and business experience.

Through YLAI's Business Leadership Curriculum and individualized professional placements, Fellows have accelerated the success of their business and social endeavors and developed specific action plans that they have then implemented upon returning to their home countries.

The registration process is carried out on the YLAI web portal, but it is the US embassies and consulates that organize activities with professional fellows, members of the network, various young leaders and vulnerable populations, to support business ecosystems.

According to official information, YLAI Network fellows and members are key partners in interacting and inspiring young people throughout the hemisphere.

The scholarship includes the expenses of:

• J-1 visa support. Visa assistance will not be offered to dependents as this is an unaccompanied program.

• Roundtrip travel from the participant's hometown to the United States and domestic travel in the United States, as required by the program.

• YLAI Business Leadership Curriculum Coursework and Tutoring;

• Opening Orientation in Tempe, Arizona and Closing Forum in Washington, DC;

• Four-week internship with the host organization;

• A limited sickness and accident benefit plan; and

• Housing and food stipend during the program.

Requirements to apply to the YLAI scholarship program

• Be between 25 and 35 years old on the start date of the scholarship.

• You are a resident and citizen of one of the participating countries (most Latin American countries, including Cuba)

• They are eligible to receive a US J-1 visa.

• Have a proven track record of successfully growing your own business or social enterprise for at least two (2) years.

• You are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.

• You are not an employee of the US government

• They are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.

Candidates will be considered without distinction of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexuality, nationality, disability or any other protected characteristic as established by US law.