African Natural Capital Alliance Nature Executive Fellowship 2027: Applications Open for African Nature Finance Leaders
Overview
The Nature Executive Fellowship is a 12-month leadership development programme running through 2027, organised by the African Natural Capital Alliance in collaboration with the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business, the University of Oxford’s Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, and the London School of Economics. Funded by the United Kingdom’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the programme is designed for senior professionals and executives to equip them with the expertise, networks, and practical skills needed to advance nature finance and biodiversity conservation across Africa.
The format includes three compulsory in-person residential modules scheduled for February, May, and August 2027, supplemented by online learning sessions, group coaching, and expert-led discussions held between modules. Participants also work on a real-world nature-based solutions project relevant to their organisation, aiming to move it toward implementation and capital mobilisation. Successful participants receive a certificate signed by the programme partners and gain entry into an alumni community connected to the African Natural Capital Alliance network.
Who can apply
The programme targets senior leaders, executives, and senior professionals working within Africa’s nature finance ecosystem who can influence strategic decisions and contribute to nature finance initiatives inside their organisations. It is relevant for individuals operating in financial institutions, banking, investment, environmental finance, biodiversity conservation, nature-based solutions, sustainable development, financial regulation, environmental policy, and project development. Preference is given to candidates from member organisations of the African Natural Capital Alliance.
Requirements
Applicants must obtain written confirmation from their employers stating that they will be released to attend all three compulsory residential modules and supported in working on their projects. Prospective applicants should consult the official application portal for detailed qualification requirements. Fellows who withdraw from the programme or cannot attend a module are required to repay the fellowship costs incurred on their behalf.
How to apply
Interested candidates must complete the official online application through the recruitment portal.
Key dates
Applications close on 22 October 2026, with submissions reviewed on a rolling basis. The fellowship takes place across 2027, featuring residential modules in February 2027, May 2027, and August 2027.