Applications open for Educational Scholarship

Deadline: 17-Apr-2026

The Slow Food Educational Scholarship supports emerging beverage professionals to attend global industry events focused on sustainability, networking, and skill-building. Selected participants gain full event registration, lodging, travel stipends, and mentorship, while deepening knowledge of sustainable practices and the Slow Food values of good, clean, and fair food and beverage. This initiative targets early-career professionals seeking to expand their industry connections and expertise.

Overview of the Scholarship

The Slow Food Educational Scholarship aims to empower emerging professionals in the beverage industry by providing opportunities to attend major global events:

• Tales of the Cocktail – New Orleans, USA (July 19–24, 2026)

• Terra Madre Salone del Gusto – Turin, Italy (September 24–28, 2026)

The program emphasizes sustainability, education, and professional development. It integrates Slow Food’s principles of good, clean, and fair food and beverage into industry practices.

Key Benefits:

• Event registration and lodging fully covered

• Travel stipend of $1,000

• Participation in a cohort of 15 participants per event

• Guidance and training from a Slow Food ambassador

• Access to dedicated Slow Food programming during and after the event

• Ongoing engagement with the Slow Food movement, including online capacity-building

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Be currently employed in the hospitality and beverage service industry

• Be above the legal drinking age

• Be first-time attendees of the selected event

• Demonstrate a willingness to submit a simple report after participation

Target Audience:

• Early-career beverage professionals

• Individuals with limited access to international industry events

• Professionals committed to sustainable practices and Slow Food principles

Why It Matters

The scholarship fosters professional growth, networking, and sustainability awareness in the beverage sector. Participants:

• Build international connections with industry peers

• Gain exposure to global best practices in sustainable beverage production and service

• Strengthen their professional profile within the hospitality and beverage industry

• Promote Slow Food values of ethical and sustainable practices

How to Apply / How It Works

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure employment in the hospitality and beverage sector

• Verify age meets the legal drinking requirements

• Confirm first-time attendance at the selected event

Step 2: Prepare Application

• Complete the official application form

• Include details of current role, experience, and motivation

• Highlight commitment to sustainability and Slow Food values

Step 3: Submit Application

• Submit through the Slow Food scholarship portal by the specified deadline

• Ensure all required information is included

Step 4: Selection and Notification

• 30 participants will be selected (15 per event)

• Selected participants receive full support including lodging, registration, and travel stipend

Step 5: Event Participation and Follow-Up

• Attend a dedicated Slow Food program during the event

• Participate in two preparatory calls before and one follow-up session after the event

• Submit a simple report summarizing learnings and outcomes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying if not employed in the hospitality or beverage industry

• Being under the legal drinking age

• Submitting application for a previously attended event

• Failing to demonstrate interest in sustainability or Slow Food values

• Omitting required post-event reporting commitment

Tips for Success

• Clearly articulate motivation and professional goals

• Highlight experience and potential impact of participation

• Emphasize commitment to sustainable practices

• Prepare a concise plan for applying learnings after the event

• Demonstrate collaboration potential within the beverage industry

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the Slow Food Educational Scholarship?
   Emerging beverage professionals employed in the hospitality or beverage industry who meet age requirements and have not previously attended the selected event.

2. Which events are supported?
   Tales of the Cocktail (New Orleans, USA) and Terra Madre Salone del Gusto (Turin, Italy).

3. What does the scholarship cover?
   Full event registration, lodging, a $1,000 travel stipend, and guidance from a Slow Food ambassador.

4. How many participants are selected?
   A total of 30 participants, 15 per event.

5. Is post-event reporting required?
   Yes, participants must submit a simple report summarizing learnings and outcomes.

6. Are travel or accommodation costs covered beyond the stipend?
   Yes, lodging and registration are fully covered; travel is partially supported by a $1,000 stipend.

7. Can applicants participate in both events?
   No, applicants can only apply for one event per year.

Conclusion

The Slow Food Educational Scholarship provides emerging beverage professionals with unparalleled access to international learning and networking opportunities, while fostering sustainable practices and adherence to Slow Food values. This program builds capacity, strengthens connections, and empowers future leaders in the hospitality and beverage industry.

For more information, visit Slow Food.