2026 Dr. Michael Simpson Scholarship Fund

Secure World Foundation (SWF) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Dr. Michael Simpson Scholarship Fund, which supports young professionals in participating in the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026, taking place October 5–9, 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye.

The scholarship provides financial assistance to individuals aged 35 and under to travel to, attend, and present their work at IAC. Awards range from $500 to $1,500 to help offset travel-related expenses. Applicants must have one accepted IAC abstract and complete a short application, including a 500-word essay.

Since its inception, the program has received more than 450 applications and awarded over 60 scholarships to recipients from 28 countries. The scholarship reflects SWF’s commitment to supporting the next generation of space professionals and advancing international space cooperation and space capacity building across the global space community.

By enabling broader participation in major international forums like IAC, the program contributes to strengthening the space sector workforce and fostering inclusive engagement in discussions on space sustainability, space governance, and the long-term future of space activities.

Application deadline: 8:00 AM (MDT), Monday, June 15, 2026

Applicants are encouraged to click below to apply: