HINRICH FOUNDATION GUIDE
Empower your future in global trade - up to US$25,000 from the Hinrich Foundation when co-funded by student-secured corporate sponsorship.
Earn your specialized business education at selected leading master’s programs, develop corporate connections and join a worldwide network of trade leaders.
Building leadership in trade
Application eligibility
This scholarship is your pathway to a successful career in global trade. Key characteristics include:
Top education
From leading MBAs and master's programs in international business and trade.
Industry engagement
When you reach out to secure co-funding from corporate sponsors and develop lasting business connections.
Tuition support
The combined financial support of a Hinrich Foundation scholarship and your corporate sponsor’s funding.
Global trade leader network
Graduates become members of the worldwide Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association.
Discover more below.
This scholarship is your pathway to a successful career in global trade. Key characteristics include:
Top education
From leading MBAs and master's programs in international business and trade.
Industry engagement
When you reach out to secure co-funding from corporate sponsors and develop lasting business connections.
Tuition support
The combined financial support of a Hinrich Foundation scholarship and your corporate sponsor’s funding.
Global trade leader network
Graduates become members of the worldwide Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association
Discover more below
HINRICH FOUNDATION GUIDE
Global Trade Leader Scholarship Program overview
What
Two scholarships for each of the selected programs.
Where
For study at any of these selected programs:
‐ Cranfield School of Management, The Transformation MBA
‐ INSEAD Singapore campus, MBA
‐ National University of Singapore, MBA
‐ Thunderbird School of Global Management, Master of Global Management
When
Ongoing enrollment for academic year 2025-2026, depending on each university’s application cycle and your Hinrich Foundation scholarship application.
Eligibility
Open to applicants from all countries who:
‐ Secure corporate sponsorship for tuition co-funding
‐ Are admitted to one of the four selected leading programs
‐ Display a strong interest in a career in global trade and aptitude for master’s study as determined by the Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee
(Note: Program admission decisions are at the sole discretion of each university)
Amount
Up to US$50,000 comprised of the following components:
1) Student-secured corporate donor tuition support of up to US$25,000
2) Hinrich Foundation tuition support to match the corporate sponsor’s contribution up to US$25,000
Apply by
Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for qualified applicants. Please read the Application Eligibility for details.
Two scholarships are available at each of the four master’s programs selected from those featured in the Hinrich Foundation Guide to Master’s Programs in International Business and Trade.
They all exemplify the trade course content and trade program attributes that employers need their leadership talent to develop. For summaries of each program, see below.
For full program profiles, follow the links for each program:
Cranfield School of Management, The Transformation MBA
The Cranfield Transformation MBA is designed to develop leaders capable of navigating a dynamic business world. It employs a problem-based and practice-led learning approach, immersing students in real-world projects with leading companies and offering diverse pathways to align with individual aspirations.
Emphasizing leadership development, the program provides one-to-one executive coaching, access to an Executive in Residence and specialized workshops to cultivate responsible and influential leaders ready to drive transformation. Read the full Cranfield The Transformation MBA profile here
INSEAD Singapore campus, MBA
The accelerated MBA program at INSEAD is designed to develop agile, resilient and responsible leaders who can thrive in fast-changing business environments. Students are offered flexibility in choosing courses and campus, allowing them to explore different subject areas, business landscapes and cultures.
The comprehensive curriculum is complemented by robust career resources and INSEAD’s global networks of MBA alumni, trade practitioners and employers, which open doors for life-long professional development and career opportunities. Read the full INSEAD MBA profile here.
National University of Singapore, MBA
The NUS MBA is a globally recognized program with a strong focus in doing business in Asia. It provides a transformative learning experience that emphasizes leadership development, real-world application and global exposure. Through a wide range of electives and specializations, students can tailor their study to suit their career interests.
The program also boasts a diverse international cohort and strong industry ties, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. Read the full NUS MBA profile here.
Thunderbird School of Global Management, Master of Global Management
The Thunderbird Master of Global Management offers a flexible curriculum combining a core global business foundation with 16 transdisciplinary concentrations, from international entrepreneurship and data science to healthcare and global affairs. Its strong global emphasis is reinforced through experiential learning: weeklong field seminars, multiweek Global Challenge Labs and international immersions, preparing graduates to navigate diverse cultures, industries and markets worldwide.
The program’s multifaceted approach – combined with robust career services, access to ASU’s vast curriculum and Thunderbird’s rich industry connections – provides graduates a platform to secure leadership positions across global value chains. Read the full Thunderbird Master of Global Management profile here.
Kickstart your career with industry engagement and tuition support
Scholarship candidates are required to secure funding from a quality corporate sponsor. This enables you to engage directly with industry leaders from day one – and potentially receive up to US$50,000 in tuition support with up to US$25,000 from Hinrich Foundation when matched by up to US$25,000 from your corporate sponsor.
When you approach companies for sponsorship, they will value your initiative to seek their support to build your global trade career. It may be the start of a long-term relationship. Companies may wish to sponsor your studies as part of their:
A corporate sponsor may or may not be your employer but must not be affiliated with your family. The Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee will conduct due diligence on the corporate sponsor.
If you have already secured a corporate sponsor, see Application eligibility for next steps.
For further details, see FAQs - 'Securing corporate sponsorship' section.
Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association
All graduates of this scholarship program will become members of the exclusive Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association (HFAA). Members of the HFAA are Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leaders working across global trade value chains worldwide. HFAA members have exclusive access to lifelong professional development support and networking with fellow Global Trade Leaders worldwide.
See FAQ - 'Expand your professional global network' section.
Determine your eligibility to apply for the scholarship
We realize applicants will be at various stages of applying for programs and arranging finance. You can apply for this Scholarship program at different stages of your master’s application process.
The table below will help you determine if you are eligible to apply for this scholarship:
If you are in category 1, 2 or 3, we invite you to complete and submit the Application Eligibility Form at the bottom of this page.
The Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee will review your submission and inform you if you are eligible to apply.
Please read the FAQs related to:
Please read the FAQs related to:
About the scholarship
Selected leading master's programs
Securing corporate sponsorship
Expand your professional global network
Application eligibility
Professors with real-world experience in global trade bring invaluable industry experience and expertise to the classroom that will enhance your education outcomes. Benefits include:
Confirm that your program will be taught by practitioner professors. This will enrich your learning by bridging theory and practice, equipping you with the skills, insights and networks essential for success in the dynamic field of global trade.
Alumni network
A vibrant alumni community actively supported by the university fosters valuable lifelong connections and business opportunities among graduates worldwide
Alumni engagement programs
Universities that offer dedicated alumni services such as mentorship programs, career workshops and networking events help graduates continuously develop professionally and stay connected
Ongoing career support
Strong alumni support includes access to job placement assistance, industry insights and exclusive opportunities that empower graduates to thrive in the evolving global business landscape
Alumni leadership advancement
Graduates who advance into senior leadership roles showcase the program’s ability to prepare professionals for high-level global trade positions
The cohesion of the alumni community and success of alumni in influential roles confirms the quality of the curriculum, teaching and industry engagement. Backed by proactive university initiatives, these factors demonstrate the program’s excellence and dedication to successful student outcomes throughout their careers.
A strong international business and trade master’s program is reflected in the leadership success of its graduates and the strength of its alumni network. When evaluating programs, look for:
Alumni network
A vibrant alumni community actively supported by the university fosters valuable lifelong connections and business opportunities among graduates worldwide
Alumni engagement programs
Universities that offer dedicated alumni services such as mentorship programs, career workshops and networking events help graduates continuously develop professionally and stay connected
Ongoing career support
Strong alumni support includes access to job placement assistance, industry insights and exclusive opportunities that empower graduates to thrive in the evolving global business landscape
Alumni leadership advancement
Graduates who advance into senior leadership roles showcase the program’s ability to prepare professionals for high-level global trade positions
The cohesion of the alumni community and success of alumni in influential roles confirms the quality of the curriculum, teaching and industry engagement. Backed by proactive university initiatives, these factors demonstrate the program’s excellence and dedication to successful student outcomes throughout their careers.
Application eligibility
About the scholarship
Must I secure a corporate sponsor to be eligible for this scholarship?
Yes. It is a mandatory requirement that scholarship candidates secure a corporate sponsor that will offer tuition funding.
What is the potential value of the scholarship?
The Hinrich Foundation will match the corporate sponsor’s contribution up to US$25,000. That’s potentially up to US$50,000 in tuition support.
Can I combine the tuition funding from more than one corporate sponsor?
Yes, you can combine tuition funding from multiple corporate sponsors. For successful candidates, the Hinrich Foundation will match the corporate sponsors’ combined tuition contribution up to US$25,000.
Can the Hinrich Foundation co-funding be used for stipend support such as living allowance, housing, travel, books, etc…?
No. Hinrich Foundation co-funding is only applicable towards tuition.
Will Hinrich Foundation match corporate sponsor funding allocated to stipend support?
No. Hinrich Foundation co-funding is only applicable towards tuition. The corporate sponsor may elect to offer you stipend support, but Hinrich Foundation will not match that amount.
Can the corporate sponsor fund more than US$25,000 for tuition?
Yes, but the Hinrich Foundation co-funding support is capped at $25,000.
If the corporate sponsor funding includes both stipend and scholarship, will the Hinrich Foundation co-fund the total amount up to $25,000?
No. For successful candidates, the Hinrich Foundation will only co-fund the tuition portion of your corporate sponsor’s funding, up to $25,000.
Selected leading master’s programs
Which master’s programs are eligible for this scholarship?
This scholarship is available for the following four programs:
Can I apply if I have not yet applied for or received my offer of admission?
Yes. If you meet the other requirements, such securing a corporate sponsor, the Scholarhship Committee may award you a Conditional Scholarship contingent upon your enrolment in the next intake.
Can I apply if I have already received admission to one of the selected programs?
Yes, as long as you have not started your studies and can secure a corporate sponsor for tuition co-funding.
Do I still need to go through the university’s full application and enrolment process?
Yes. You must apply directly to the program following their processes and meet all the university’s admission requirements. Hinrich Foundation does not influence or participate in university admissions. The decision to offer admission to the program rests solely with the university.
If I receive a Conditional Scholarship, am I guaranteed the scholarship once I complete the requirements?
Yes. Conditional Scholarships may be granted by the Scholarship Committee in two situations: a) if you have secured a corporate sponsor and are awaiting admission to a selected program or b) if you have secured admission to a selected program and are likely to secure a corporate sponsor.
Securing corporate sponsorship
What is a qualified corporate sponsor?
A corporate sponsor may or may not be your employer and must be a legally registered company that is not affiliated with your family. The Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee will conduct due diligence on the corporate sponsor. It is preferred if corporate sponsors are engaged in international business or cross-border trade, but that is not mandatory.
What are the benefits to me of securing a corporate sponsor?
When you approach corporations for sponsorship, they will value your initiative to seek their support to build your global trade career. It may be the start of a long-term relationship. Additionally, for scholarship recipients, the Hinrich Foundation will match your corporate sponsor’s tuition contribution up to $25,000.
How do I find a corporate sponsor?
You may approach your employer or reach out to other companies locally, nationally or internationally. The details about the Hinrich Foundation Guide Global Trade Leader Scholarship program on our website may be helpful to you when you reach out to companies to seek sponsorship.
Will Hinrich Foundation help me contact or negotiate with my employer or a potential corporate sponsor?
No. You are responsible for approaching and securing the co-funding commitment from potential corporate sponsors.
What if I cannot confirm a corporate sponsor?
You will not be eligible for a scholarship under this program. Only applicants who secure corporate sponsorship are eligible to be considered for the matching funds provided by this scholarship.
Does the corporate sponsor need to sign an agreement with the Hinrich Foundation?
No. The corporate sponsor may require an agreement with you, but that is entirely between you and the corporate sponsor.
Do the corporate sponsor and Hinrich Foundation give the scholarship tuition funds to me to pay my own tuition?
No. All scholarship funds are paid directly to the university to be credited towards your tuition. Hinrich Foundation will only transfer funds to the university directly and requires that your corporate sponsor does the same.
Am I required to sign an agreement with my employer / corporate sponsor?
That depends entirely on you and your corporate sponsor. Any obligations - such as internships, work undertaking, service period or repayment in case of non-compliance will need to be agreed on between you and the corporate sponsor directly, without Hinrich Foundation’s involvement. The Hinrich Foundation will not be a party to that agreement.
Expand your professional global network
What are the benefits of joining the Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association?
You will be a part of a global network of trade leaders and gain ongoing access to professional development and exclusive networking opportunities. For details, visit ALUMNI URL here.
Does the Hinrich Foundation impose any service commitment or work obligation after graduation?
No. The Hinrich Foundation does not require any work undertaking.
What are the obligations of Hinrich Foundation scholarship recipients?
Recipients of the scholarship are expected to maintain a good academic standing, participate in Hinrich Foundation events when possible and engage with the alumni network.
Application eligibility
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Visit the Hinrich Foundation Guide website, review the Hinrich Foundation Guide Scholarship details and read the requirements of the selected program you are interested in. Then, submit the Application Eligibility Form for the scholarship.
How are applicants selected?
Selection is based on the Scholarship Committee’s assessment of your:
Do I need to secure admission to one of the four selected programs before finding a corporate sponsor, or can I secure corporate sponsorship first and then apply/enrol in a program?
You can take either approach. You may first receive admission from a selected program and then secure a corporate sponsor, or first secure a corporate sponsor and then apply to the selected program.
Is the scholarship guaranteed if I find a corporate sponsor and the university gives me an admission offer?
No. The Scholarship Committee will review your application, interview invited candidates and assess your corporate sponsor before confirming the scholarship. If you have secured both a corporate sponsor and admission to one of the selected programs, your application will receive priority.
What makes a strong candidate?
The Scholarship Committee will give priority to a candidate who has secured admission to one of our selected programs and a corporate sponsor to co-fund their tuition. They should also demonstrate strong academic potential for a master’s education and passion for a career in global trade.
FAQs
Please read the FAQs related to:
About the scholarship
Selected leading master's programs
Securing corporate sponsorship
Expand your professional global network
Application eligibility
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Cost & financial aid
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Application eligibility form
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