Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Hero Travel Fund (HTF) offers a $10,000 award annually to one individual, supporting a memorable travel experience. This award covers the cost of hotels, transfers, and experiences during your journey. Travel should be completed within one year of receiving the award.

  • Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to doing good in the world, have a specific intention for their travel, and exhibit financial need. The fund is intended for individuals who would not be able to afford such a trip otherwise.

  • Request an application here or by clicking the button/link below. We will then send you detailed instructions about how to complete your application via email.

  • January 1, 2025: Application process opens
    February 28, 2025: Application deadline
    March 14, 2025: Finalists announced
    March 17–28, 2025: Finalist interviews
    April 4, 2025: Winner announced!!

  • The HTF is intended for people who would not otherwise be able to afford a travel experience with Explorer X. While there is no way for us to verify your financial need, we do ask those who have alternative financial resources and means – family wealth, a significant other, etc. – that could be used to travel with us to refrain from applying.

  • After an initial review of all applications, finalists will be selected and invited for interviews. The Explorer X Team will then discuss and vote on the finalists to determine the award recipient. Key criteria include:

    • The impact you are making in the world (and how long you have been doing it)

    • Your intention/purpose for traveling – Your Call to Adventure!

    • How you hope to use your experience to learn and grow

    • And, of course, your financial need

  • The HTF Award is for $10,000 and covers the cost of hotels, transfers, transportation, some meals, and most experiences and activities.

  • International airfare and travel insurance are generally not included; however, if land costs are less than $10,000, any remaining funds may be used towards them.

  • Recipients are welcome to use additional personal funds to enhance their journey. For example, to cover the cost of international flights.

  • Yes, you can bring a friend or significant other along. If the subsequent cost of the trip exceeds $10,000 you and/or your travel companion will be responsible for any additional costs.

  • Yes! You will work with your Travel Designer to craft a Custom Journey to the destination of your dreams. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, we invite you to consider going on a Destination: Unknown Adventure.

  • Ideally, travel would take place within a calendar year of receiving the award, but we can be somewhat flexible here depending on location and life circumstances.

  • There are several expectations of the recipient:

    • Complete a pre-trip video interview with Explorer X

    • Write a pre-trip blog post about your upcoming Journey

    • Travel like a HERO: Humble, Engaged, Resilient, and Open-Minded

    • Tag Explorer X on related social media posts made before, during, and after your trip

    • Write a post-trip blog describing your adventures and what you learned along the way

    • Participate in a post-trip video interview with Explorer X

    You will also invited to be involved with the HTF in the future as a committee member or volunteer.

  • Yes! Please note that this award is considered to be an 'economic benefit' by the IRS and, as such, is considered taxable income. Thus, we are required to send you a Form 1099 for the year in which your travels take place.

  • For any additional questions, please email us at hero@explorer-x.com.