HerSpark is a female athlete scouting program offering a fully funded three-year scholarship for all aspiring women athletes in India worth Rs 45 Lakh
Aimed at identifying and nurturing promising women athletes in boxing, swimming, judo, athletics and parasports to kickstart their sports career, Britannia Marie Gold, a biscuit brand, in partnership with the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), has introduced ‘HerSpark,’ a national sports scholarship program for women athletes.
The initiative offers aspiring young women athletes across India a fully funded three-year sports scholarship, covering professional training, coaching, lodging, nutrition, and educational opportunities. The program also offers coaching from former Continental and Olympic athletes such as Mamuka Kizilashvili (Judo) and Yoandris Betanzos Francis (athletics).
“With HerSpark, we extend this commitment to the world of sports, providing young female athletes with the opportunity, training, and mentorship they need to reach their highest potential. We are happy to partner with Inspire Institute of Sport to support and nurture aspiring women athletes, breaking barriers and ensuring access to world-class coaching,” stated Siddharth Gupta, General Manager – Marketing, Britannia Industries.
As per the official statement, the selection process will take place in multiple stages. After the initial application screening, over 1,000 shortlisted athletes will be invited to round one selection trials at IIS centers across India. Those who qualify will progress to two-day regional selection camps held across eight locations in India.
Based on their performance, the shortlisted athletes will then attend an exclusive three-week elite training camp at IIS Vijayanagar for further evaluation. Those who emerge as top achievers will receive a fully funded three-year sports scholarship, providing them with the best preparation to compete at national and international levels.
By sharing resources, training, and support, Britannia Marie Gold and IIS aim to empower young female athletes to compete and succeed on a global level by polishing their spark, as per the official statement.
“Through this partnership, we are launching a nationwide scouting programme to identify young female athletes and equip them with the skills and guidance needed to succeed on the biggest stage. Shortlisted athletes would receive a three-year, fully funded scholarship program at IIS’ world-class facilities— with access to some of the world’s best coaches,” stated Manisha Malhotra, President of Inspire Institute of Sport.
Female athletes across India can apply for the scholarship by visiting the official HerSpark website to fill out the application form. The scholarship is open to female athletes aged 14 and above residing in India. Minors (under 18) must obtain parental or guardian consent to participate.
