Six selected applicants will receive a €20,000 financial grant each, along with a trip to New York for the announcement. They will also participate in a specialized educational program that includes personalized mentorship, a series of online masterclasses, and opportunities to network within the industry.

The program is designed for creative individuals between the ages of 21 and 30 at the time of application and by the deadline. It is open to all nationalities and residents worldwide. However, applicants must meet U.S. entry requirements, such as obtaining a visa and being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as travel to the U.S. is part of the program. Applicants must hold a valid passport.

Applicants must be the sole legal and beneficial owners of the intellectual property in any projects or products they submit. Projects submitted by co-founders or employees on behalf of a company will not be accepted.

Exemptions apply to employees of the Swarovski Foundation, Swarovski Group, its subsidiaries, agents, and any business involved in administering the program, as well as their household members.

The program excludes certain creative fields, such as performing arts (music, dance, theater) and literature (creative writing, journalism, novels, stories, etc.). It is not intended to cover university costs or final-degree projects.

Projects can be at any development stage, from new ideas to market-ready enterprises. Early-stage ideas should demonstrate a long-term vision and proof of concept, while more developed projects should showcase how the program will further sustainable development.

Applicants must have a bank account in their name to receive the €20,000 grant. Payments cannot be made to third-party accounts due to governance regulations. Only one application is allowed per person; multiple entries will be invalid.

Valid submissions will be assessed on six criteria:

1. Design and Creativity : How innovative and creative is the design in solving challenges?
2. Innovation: Is the idea new, original, and solution-oriented? Does it disrupt existing systems?
3. Potential, Feasibility, and Scalability: Can the creative process drive sustainable development? Is there a long-term vision for growth?
4. Impact: Does the idea have the potential to create positive social, environmental, or cultural effects?
5. Sustainable Development: How well does the concept align with the Sustainable Development Goals?
6. Funding Transparency: How responsibly will the grant be used to promote sustainable development through creativity?

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