Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2027: Launch Your Business Idea

Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027: Develop Your Venture

Applications are now open for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027. This program is designed for African students and recent graduates who want to develop their entrepreneurial skills and build their own ventures. The 8-month fellowship offers training, resources, financial support, and mentorship to drive social and financial impact.

Application Closing Date: December 1, 2026
Location: Online (Africa-focused)
Programme Duration: 8 months
Stipend: Up to $500 CAD for selected Fellows
Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship

This fellowship is a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs across Africa. It focuses on developing exceptional entrepreneurial skillsets and mindsets needed to lead and create impactful businesses. The program is delivered through a collaboration between the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University and delivery partners across Africa.

The fellowship is structured into three online courses. Participants will learn the foundations of entrepreneurship, receive virtual coaching, and develop their own business ideas. Demonstrating commitment is key to advancing through the program phases.

About Queen’s University and the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre

Queen’s University, through its Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre (DDQIC), is committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The DDQIC provides resources and support for students and recent graduates to develop their business ideas. This fellowship is part of their broader mission to empower young leaders across Africa.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

This fellowship is focused on entrepreneurship and developing business ventures. While specific business sectors are not listed, the program aims to equip participants with the skills to address pressing problems and bring entrepreneurial ideas to life.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will gain significant benefits to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey. These include:

• Best-in-class Training: Access to a business bootcamp led by Queen’s University faculty and industry experts. You will learn the Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework, receive pitch coaching, and participate in live workshops on marketing and goal setting.
• Micro-credentials: Opportunity to earn micro-credentials in Entrepreneurship awarded by Queen’s University upon successful course completion.
• Mentorship & Networking: Connect with leading mentors and speakers in North America’s innovation and entrepreneurship scene. Gain access to Queen’s entrepreneurial alumni network and a cohort of like-minded individuals from across Africa.
• Financial Support: Up to 60 selected Fellows will receive a stipend of $500 CAD. There are also opportunities to pitch for prizes of up to $15,000 CAD at the end of the program.
• Inclusivity: The program is designed to remove barriers and be accessible to as many individuals as possible, with continuous refinement based on participant feedback.

Programme Duration and Location

The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship is an 8-month program. It is delivered online, making it accessible to participants across Africa.

Eligibility

To be considered for this fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are a citizen of an African country.
• You are currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution or are a recent graduate (within the past five years).
• You have a strong desire to solve pressing problems and bring an entrepreneurial idea to life.
• You can commit to completing all three phases of the online program.
• You have reliable internet access and a device for virtual sessions and online assignments.

Competencies Required

The program seeks individuals with a drive for innovation and problem-solving. Key qualities include:

• A desire to solve pressing problems.
• An entrepreneurial mindset.
• Commitment to learning and program completion.
• Ability to work independently and virtually.
• Access to technology for online participation.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for African students and recent graduates who are passionate about entrepreneurship. If you have an innovative idea to address a problem in your community or country and are eager to learn and grow your business skills, this program is for you. It is suited for those ready to commit to an intensive online learning experience.

Required Documents

While specific documents are not detailed, applicants should prepare the following common application materials:

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of South African ID (if applicable, or relevant national ID)
• Certified copies of academic transcripts or certificates
• A clear outline of your entrepreneurial idea or problem you wish to solve
• Any other documents requested on the online application portal.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply online through the provided link.

Click here to apply for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027

Ensure you read all requirements carefully and complete the online form accurately. Prepare all necessary documents before starting your application.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.
• Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria.
• Incomplete applications may not be considered.
• Reliable internet access is essential for participation.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is December 1, 2026.

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