Got questions on how the 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship works? Or not sure on how to make your application shine? Check out some of the most frequently asked questions below – or if you can’t find the answer you were looking for, drop a message at barsscholarship@wrbm.com

What is the 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship?

The 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship is a first-of-its-kind programme to support the next generation of #FuturePositive bartending talent, focused on actively developing a sustainable and inclusive vision of hospitality for guests, the industry and the planet as a whole.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is available for one deserving winner – complete with unique training experiences at two of the world’s best bars: Sips in Barcelona and Alquímico in Cartagena, as well as a workshop and ongoing support from The Blend team.

What does the winner get?

After being crowned champion in-person at The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 ceremony in Singapore, the newly appointed scholar will embark on a set of three life changing opportunities around the globe.

Between January and April 2024, the winner will attend a two week stage (internship) at 50 Best Bars No.10 Alquímico in Cartagena, Colombia; followed by another two week stage at Sips in Barcelona, Spain – No.3 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 ranking. They will also get a unique insight into the wider industry, working with The Blend Global team.

All flights, accommodation and £500 weekly allowance per stage will be included. For full information on the prize, click here.

What does #FuturePositive mean?

Put simply, it’s imagining a better tomorrow for hospitality. It’s about thinking of a path to a better future – making bold moves that can have a positive impact for our industry, our guests, our communities, our planet and ourselves.

Explore the theme in full here.

What do I need to do to apply?

You can find detailed information on both 50 Best Bars and The Blend . Fill in the application form and upload a video; introducing yourself briefly and explain what small adjustments to everyday practice or large-scale overhaul you think would help drive change in our industry – whether it’s for the planet, your community, your guests or your colleagues. Make sure you reflect on the #FuturePositive theme and upload to the application page by 15th May. Easy!

How experienced do I need to be?

Applications are only open to those 21+ years old with less than five years’ experience in our industry. We want to discover and nurture the big thinkers of tomorrow – so your vision is what matters, not what you’ve done already.

Am I eligible if I am in my 5th year?

Yes. All applicants are eligible with under five full years of experience at the time of submission. For example, if you started your career on 1st June 2017, you would remain eligible to apply until 31st May 2023.

Can I apply if I am currently not working in a bar or I am a consultant?

Yes. However, within the application process, you may be required to provide references from previous employers or jobs upon request.

When does my application need to be completed?

Applications close at 12:00 BST on 15th May – no late entries will be accepted. For the full download on timings, click here.

What happens if I am selected?

After applications close on 15th May, we’ll select 25 applicants to go through to round two where you’ll be asked to design a drink inspired by our theme of #FuturePositive and featuring a local ingredient from your country. All successful round one applicants will be notified by mid-June.

From there, we’ll nominate five semi-finalists who will be interviewed by the 50 Best Bars and The Blend teams, as well as Simone Caporale of Sips and Jean Trinn from Alquímico.

For all the information on next steps, check out our timings page.

How can I get feedback on my application if I am not selected for the next round?

If you are unsuccessful in your application, we may be able to provide feedback from barsscholarship@wrbm.com.

Where do I find the Terms and Conditions?

The full terms and conditions for the scholarship can be found here.