Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 | Fully Funded Fellowship for African Innovators 

Overview

The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship offers African students and recent graduates the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial ideas into impactful ventures. Organized by Queen’s University in Canada, the eight-month program provides comprehensive training, mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking to help participants acquire the mindset and skills needed to launch successful, scalable businesses that drive social and economic change in Africa.

Eligibility

The fellowship is open to:

• African students and recent graduates from any academic background.

• Individuals with a business idea or an early-stage venture that addresses local or global challenges.

• Applicants who demonstrate interest in entrepreneurship, innovation, and community development.

• Applicants proficient in English or French (bilingual support is available).

Benefits

• Entrepreneurship training delivered by Queen’s University faculty and experienced industry professionals.

• Access to the Disciplined Entrepreneurship Framework developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

• Pitch coaching and live workshops covering marketing, leadership, and team building.

• Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and business leaders in Africa and North America.

• Networking opportunities with Queen’s University alumni and a community of African innovators.

• Micro-credentials in Entrepreneurship from Queen’s University upon successful completion.

• Up to 60 fellows receive a stipend of 500 CAD.

• Opportunities to win up to 15,000 CAD in the final pitch competition.

• Selected fellows may travel to Canada to participate in activities at the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre.

Program Components

• Business Bootcamp with Queen’s University faculty and executives.

• Entrepreneurship Framework from MIT for developing scalable startups.

• Workshops on marketing, goal setting, and leadership.

• Mentorship from entrepreneurs such as Christine Kamala, Kora Sabi Janvier, Oluwasegun Oluwaleti, and Duncan Asamoah.

• Global networking with peers and mentors.

Application Requirements

Applicants must:

• Complete the online application form.

• Present a clear and feasible business idea or startup concept.

• Provide personal and academic details.

• Commit to participating fully in the eight-month virtual fellowship.

Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on:

• Creativity and feasibility of the proposed business idea.

• Demonstrated leadership skills and commitment to social or economic impact.

• Consistent engagement throughout the program.

• Consideration for gender balance and inclusivity, with strong encouragement for women to apply.

Application Process

1. Visit the official fellowship website.

2. Review all eligibility and program requirements.

3. Submit the online application with details of your startup idea.

4. Participate in any required interviews or pitch stages.

5. Selected candidates will be notified to begin the fellowship.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Typically in late November (to be confirmed).

• Program Duration: Eight months (virtual).

• Final Pitch Competition: Hosted at the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre, Canada.

Inclusivity Commitment

The program prioritizes accessibility and inclusion. Over 60 percent of previous fellows were women. The courses are available offline and in English or French. All certificates and badges are blockchain-verified, and each participant receives personal coaching and mentor support throughout the program.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 | Fully Funded Fellowship for African Innovators