LIONS Scholarship (Cannes Lions 2027) for Under-represented Creative Talent

Spread the love

Applications are now open for the LIONS Scholarship (Cannes Lions 2027). The deadline is 4 December 2026, 00:01 GMT. This opportunity will support 10 underrepresented creative professionals to attend the Cannes Lions Festival in Cannes, France.


In addition, selected scholars will join either the Creative Academy or the Brand Marketing Academy. The scholarship covers travel, accommodation, and an allowance. It also includes a Young Lions Festival pass, hands-on learning, classroom sessions, coaching, and a digital certificate.

Application Deadline & Key Dates:

  • Applications Opened: 29 October 2026, 00:01 GMT
  • Application Closing Deadline: 4 December 2026, 00:01 GMT
  • Applicant Notification Date: 1 February 2027
  • Festival Dates: June 2027 (Cannes Lions Festival in Cannes, France)

Tell Me About The Program:

The LIONS Scholarship (offered by Cannes Lions / Informa Events) is a prestigious global initiative designed to support underrepresented emerging creative and marketing talent worldwide. Emphasizing diversity across location, gender, race, class, and perspective, the scholarship selects 10 exceptional under-30 professionals globally to participate in specialized academies at the world-renowned Cannes Lions Festival.

Which Fields are Eligible:

  • Creative Academy Track: Art Directors, Copywriters, Graphic/UX Designers, Directors, Journalists, PR professionals, Creative Technologists, and Engineers.
  • Brand Marketing Academy Track: Brand & Marketing Managers, Digital Marketers, Marketing Directors, and Social Media Managers (brand/client-side).

Type:

Fully Funded, Professional Academy & International Industry Conference

Who can Apply:

  • Age Requirement: Must be born on or after 26 June 1997 (minimum age of 18 at the time of application; proof of age required).
  • Work Experience: Must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional work experience in the creative or marketing sector.
  • Language Proficiency: Must be able to fully participate in programs presented in English.
  • Global Openness: Open to international applicants worldwide (focusing on underrepresented diverse talent from 10 countries globally).

How are Applicants Selected:

Applications are evaluated through a rigorous two-stage review process. After initial screening, a global jury of over 40 industry leaders (including creative directors, art directors, and copywriters) reviews and shortlists candidates based on creative excellence, professional potential, and statement of passion.

Which Countries Are Eligible:

Global (Open to applicants worldwide, targeting a diverse geographic spread across 10 countries for the final cohort).

Where will the Program be Taken:

Cannes, France (Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity).

How Many Fellows / Grantees:

10 Places in Total (5 places in the Creative Academy and 5 places in the Brand Marketing Academy).

What is the Benefit of the Program:

  • Fully Funded Travel & Logistics: Return air travel and accommodation expenses fully covered.
  • Living Allowance: Financial allowance provided to cover food and personal expenses during the festival week.
  • Festival Access: Young Lions Festival pass granting full access to inspiring classroom sessions, hands-on learning, and coaching from industry legends.
  • Certification: Official digital certificate upon successful completion of the Academy program.

How Long Will it Last:

Week-long intensive festival and academy experience in June 2027.

Required Application Documents:

  1. Proof of Age (official identification showing birth date on or after 26 June 1997).
  2. Professional CV / Resume demonstrating at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
  3. Completed online application form and submission responses (referencing the official LIONS Scholarship Entry Kit for guidance).

How to Apply:

  1. Review the official scholarship details and download the LIONS Scholarship Entry Kit via the official portal to understand essay prompts and evaluation criteria.
  2. Access the official application portal at the Cannes Lions Competitions Platform.
  3. Complete your profile and submit your application before the deadline on 4 December 2026 at 00:01 GMT.
  4. For technical support or inquiries, contact the organizers at [email protected].

Application portal: https://competitions.canneslions.com/index.cfm

👉 Visit the official scholarship page for details

Author

  • Sinolu Chuck is a expert international education financing for African students. His job is to make sure students and professionals do not miss out on opportunities to fund their education and advance their career.