YBI’s Member Learning Exchange Scheme 

YBI is delighted to launch our new Member Learning Exchange Scheme. This new initiative  gives a limited number of our members the opportunity for deep-dive learning and collaboration through a funded ‘study visit’ to spend three days in the offices and company of another YBI member.    
 
We know that connecting with peers allows the exchange of ideas, knowledge and insights, and the opportunity for new ideas to emerge.  For member organisations who are seeking deeper relationships, learning around a specific topic or simply the chance to travel and collaborate with trusted and respected colleagues, the Member Learning Exchange Scheme is a fantastic opportunity.  
 
We know our members benefit from the power of connecting regularly. From attending Communities of Practice to the famous Global Youth Entrepreneurship Summit, in person meetings can foster deeper learning and greater innovation. That’s why we’re offering this Scheme as a new funded opportunity, open to all members to apply. 

 From attending Communities of Practice to the famous Global Youth Entrepreneurship Summit, in person meetings can foster deeper learning and greater innovation.

To get some inspiration and find out more, come along to our session on 21 September where we will hear about Dirk Bischof’s (Hatch, UK) recent sabbatical with ETIC, Japan.  
 
Those interested must complete an application form by 1 October 2023 outlining their learning objectives and how the experience would benefit the organisation. For any questions about the scheme, please see FAQs below or contact [email protected]  

Frequently asked questions

What are the objectives of the scheme?  
The purpose of the scheme is to facilitate peer to peer learning, connection and collaboration across the YBI network. We believe in the power of personal connection to allow the exchange of ideas, knowledge and insights, and the opportunity for new ideas to emerge.   

What is expected of members undertaking study-visits?  
Visiting members will be expected to agree their learning objectives with the YBI Membership team, communicate with their hosts ahead of their visit and make their own visa applications and travel bookings (costs covered by YBI as explained above). Visiting members will be expected to spend three working days with their hosts, contribute to content for YBI communications and social media, and report back to YBI on visit outcomes. Visiting members will sign an agreement with YBI to receive the funds covering requirements in more detail. We also strongly encourage visiting members to consider becoming hosts themselves – this can be indicated in the application form.  

What are hosting members required to do?  
Members are encouraged to let us know if they would like to host a visit, but the YBI Membership team may also make direct approaches based on interest received from participants. Hosts are not required to cover any costs of visiting members but are expected to communicate with them before the visit and facilitate their learning and experience during the visit. We hope that this will be a beneficial experience for hosts, just as it is for visiting members.  

What is covered by the funding?  
The cost of a visa, return flight and three nights’ hotel stay. Budget caps will be applied depending on the level of interest and once applications have been received and reviewed. Visiting members are responsible for covering in-country travel, food and incidentals.   

When must the visit take place?  
Visits must take place by the end of February 2024. We are aware this is a tight deadline, but it is a requirement of the funding.  

Will all applicants get to take part in the scheme?  
No, this is not guaranteed. There is a set budget for this project, and we expect it to be popular, so we will need to assess once applications are received.