Now Accepting Applications: Dr. Michael Simpson Scholarship Fund

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

We are excited to announce that the Secure World Foundation (SWF) is now accepting applications for the Dr. Michael Simpson Scholarship Fund, formerly known as the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) Scholarship Program, which supports young professionals in attending the 2023 International Astronautical Congress (IAC).

The IAC will take place from October 2-6 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and we are offering travel scholarships for space professionals under 35 years old. Since the fund's inception, we have received more than 400 applications and provided 56 scholarships to students from 28 countries.

Our goal is to provide an opportunity for young space professionals to participate in this prestigious conference, enhance their professional growth, and contribute innovative ideas to the global space community. 

The scholarships will cover:

1. Conference registration,
2. Transportation to/from Baku, Azerbaijan, and
3. Lodging during the IAC.

SWF scholarships will be awarded in increments of $500, ranging from $500 to $1500. Eligible applicants must have an abstract accepted for presentation at the 2023 IAC, and their paper must address one of the following topics:

• Space Sustainability
• Space Law and Policy
• Human and Environmental Security

To apply, please complete the form with your contact and paper details. Submit a short essay (max 500 words) explaining why presenting your research at the IAC is essential and what you hope to gain from the experience. Scholarship recipients must submit a trip report to SWF after the Congress.

SWF staff will evaluate applications based on:

• Abstract quality
• Relevance to Secure World Foundation's focus areas, and
• Demographic and geographic diversity.

Deadline for Applications is 11:59 PM (EDT) June 18, 2023.

If you have any questions, please contact info@swfound.org.