Applications are currently being accepted for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2027. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
The fellowship is a fully virtual entrepreneurship programme created specifically for African students and recent graduates with innovative ideas and a passion for solving pressing social and economic challenges.
Participants progress through three structured learning phases, where they receive entrepreneurial education, virtual coaching, business development guidance, and access to a growing network of mentors and fellow innovators. Advancement to each subsequent phase is based on successful completion of the previous course and demonstrated commitment throughout the programme.
The programme is delivered by the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre (DDQIC) at Queen’s University in collaboration with partner organisations across Africa.
Benefits of Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
Successful fellows receive comprehensive support throughout the programme, including:
- Fully funded participation at no cost
- Entrepreneurship training through three online courses
- One-on-one virtual coaching and mentorship
- Business idea development support
- Access to an international entrepreneurial network
- Financial and innovation support designed to help launch impactful startups
- Flexible online learning accessible across Africa
- Because the programme is delivered virtually, participants can complete the fellowship from their home country while engaging with mentors and innovators from across the continent.
Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship Requirements
- Before starting your application, please ensure that you meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You are a citizen of an African country.
- You are a student currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution or a recent graduate (within the past five years).
- You have a desire to solve pressing problems and bring an entrepreneurial idea to life.
- You can commit to completing all three phases of the online program if selected.
- You have reliable access to the internet and a device to participate in virtual sessions and complete online assignments.
Application Date and Process
- Click on the link to the application website to apply.
Application Deadline
01 December, 2026
Opportunity Application
View details of
Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
Apply for Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
