DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 | Postgraduate Business Students & SMEs

Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
Program Duration: 8 months | Start Date: March 2026
Eligible Countries: South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and others
Host Organization: Global Business School Network (GBSN) in partnership with Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL)

Apply for the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship 2026 — an 8-month global learning program pairing postgraduate business students with SMEs in emerging markets. Gain mentorship from DHL, practical experience, and international trade skills.

Overview

The DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 offers a transformative 8-month learning experience designed to connect postgraduate business students (MBA, MSc, or PhD) with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies.

Organized by the Global Business School Network (GBSN) in collaboration with Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL), the program supports cross-border trade and helps SMEs in emerging markets access global business opportunities.

Fellows gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to international trade operations while working directly with SMEs across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

Program Objectives

• Strengthen the capacity of SMEs to engage in cross-border trade.
• Provide postgraduate students with real-world consulting experience in emerging markets.
• Promote inclusive growth by linking academic knowledge with business practice.
• Build an international network of future business leaders, mentors, and innovators.

Program Benefits

By joining the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship 2026, participants enjoy numerous professional and personal advantages:

1. Practical Global Experience
Fellows are matched with SMEs in emerging markets, where they collaborate on business growth, market entry, and trade strategy projects.

2. Mentorship from DHL Experts
Participants receive direct coaching and mentoring from DHL professionals, gaining exposure to international trade logistics and global supply chains.

3. Certified Learning Journey
Access the DPDHL Certified Learning Program that covers the fundamentals of global trade, logistics, and SME development.

4. International Networking
Quarterly virtual sessions bring together students, mentors, and guest speakers to exchange ideas and insights on international business.

5. Alumni Network Access
Upon completion, fellows join the DHL GoTrade GBSN Alumni Network, connecting them with a global community of changemakers and industry leaders.

6. Resume and Career Boost
The fellowship provides a unique opportunity to gain international consulting experience, valuable for careers in trade, entrepreneurship, policy, and development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the 2026 Fellowship Cohort:

1. Enrolled at a GBSN Member School
   – Applicants must be postgraduate business students (MBA, MSc, or PhD) enrolled at a GBSN member institution at the start of the fellowship.
2. Commitment to the Full Program
   – Ability to complete the 8-month fellowship beginning March 2026, with an estimated time commitment of 12–15 hours per month.
3. Language Proficiency
   – Fluency in English is required.
   – Spanish or Portuguese proficiency is an advantage for placements in Latin America.
4. Work and Analytical Skills
   Prior professional or academic experience demonstrating strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
5. Entrepreneurial & Global Mindset
   A proactive attitude, adaptability, and interest in working within international or emerging-market contexts.

Participating SME Countries (2026)

• Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Namibia
• Europe & Asia: Ukraine, Sri Lanka, Malaysia
• Latin America: Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, Chile, El Salvador

Program Structure

• Duration: 8 months
• Time Commitment: 12–15 hours per month
• Activities Include:
  • SME consulting and project collaboration
  • Mentorship sessions with DHL professionals
  • Virtual learning workshops and speaker events
  • Networking with global peers
  • Access to alumni resources after completion

Application Process

Follow these simple steps to apply:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

• Professional photo or headshot
• Updated 2-page CV/resume
• A 2-minute video introduction (uploaded to YouTube/Vimeo as unlisted) explaining who you are, your interests, and why you should be selected

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online

Complete the official application form available through the GBSN official webpage.

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Step 3: Selection & Matching

Qualified candidates are matched with SMEs based on their skills, language proficiency, and business interests.

Step 4: Engagement & Fellowship

Attend orientation, mentoring sessions, and project meetings. Deliver valuable solutions to your assigned SME while developing your global network.

The DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program 2026 offers more than just learning  it’s a platform for impact, innovation, and professional growth. Fellows work directly on trade-related challenges that contribute to global economic inclusion and sustainable business expansion.

If you are passionate about entrepreneurship, international business, and social impact, this is your opportunity to make a difference  and grow your career globally.

Official Link & More Information

CLICK here To Apply

Deadline Reminder:

All applications must be submitted by November 1, 2025.