Impact Scholarship Program for Women

BAI NextGen & CAIA: Fostering the Next Generation of Female Talent in the Alternative Investment Industry

The Impact Scholarship is a joint initiative of the CAIA Association and the BAI NextGen Council, aimed at strengthening diversity in the alternative investment industry and supporting future leaders in their careers. This initiative creates pathways into the alternative investments industry in Europe through individual mentoring, practical training, and targeted networking. This marks the second year of the program, building on the success of our inaugural cohort featured in PB Magazin. More information about last year’s program can be found in this article, and we will start releasing testimonials from last year’s mentees via our CAIA EMEA LinkedIn page soon.

Program Goals

The alternative investment industry remains homogenous, particularly in leadership—despite the proven benefits of diversity. The Impact Scholarship Program by BAI NextGen & CAIA aims to change that by supporting talented women, easing their entry into the field, and guiding their careers. While diversity spans many dimensions—gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and more—this program begins with a focus on women, with future initiatives to expand inclusivity further. By fostering diverse talent, we’re not just creating equal opportunities; we’re shaping a more innovative and dynamic industry.

Program Components

The scholarship includes three central elements: 

Mentoring & Career Coaching: 

Over six months, participants will receive one-on-one mentorship, hands-on support, and insights from experienced industry professionals.

CAIA.nxt™ Fundamentals of Alternative Investments Certificate: 

Participants will complete this globally renowned online course that teaches the Fundamentals of the Alternative Investments sector to create a solid knowledge base.

Technical Webinars:

Three webinars on the topics of Private Debt, Private Equity, and Infrastructure will be provided, and led by experts from the NextGen network and the CAIA Association who will share current trends and practical insights.

BAI NextGen Council

Information for Applicants

The Impact Scholarship Program by BAI NextGen & CAIA is aimed at Master’s students and recent graduates who are pursuing a career in the alternative investment industry and have already gained initial practical experience. We are looking for motivated and talented candidates who want to develop their skills and learn from the best experts in the industry.

Applicant Requirements:

  • Enrolled in or recently graduated from a Master’s program at a university in Europe or abroad with the aim of integrating the European alternative investments industry.
  • Initial practical experience in the field of alternative investments (e.g., through internships, working student positions, project work or students’ associations)
  • Motivation to actively shape one’s own career and benefit from the experience of a mentor. Interest in alternative asset classes such as Private Debt, Private Equity, Venture Capital, Infrastructure, etc.
  • Willingness to write/film short video or text testimonials after completion of the program, to be shared on social media by the CAIA Association.

Application Documents:

  • Resume (max. two pages), cover letter (max. two pages) in which the applicant describes her career goals and explains how the scholarship can support her on her path.
  • Facultative: Proof of relevant internships or professional experience (e.g., work certificates, letters of recommendation)

Program Workflow:

  • Application Phase (April 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026): Interested candidates can apply for the scholarship during this period.
  • Selection of Participants (until the first week of May 2026): The program coordination team reviews the applications and selects suitable candidates.
  • Program Start (Mid-May 2026): Kick-off meeting between mentors and mentees, as well as the start of the CAIA.nxt™ Fundamental of Alternative Investments Online course.
  • Accompanying Webinars (May – October 2026): Implementation of the three topic-specific webinars. Program Conclusion (October 2026): Final networking event and certificate awarding.

For further information and questions, contact Céline Belina, Academic Relations Coordinator EMEA, CAIA Association at nextgen@caia.org or Sven Gralla, BAI NextGen Council.

Apply Here