Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2027: Entrepreneurship Training, Mentorship and USD 350 Stipend for African Students and Graduates

Overview

The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship is an eight-month virtual programme offered through the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen's University in Canada. The initiative is designed for young African entrepreneurs who want to develop practical solutions to social and economic challenges.

The programme uses the Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework to guide participants through three main phases consisting of Explore, Ignite, and Launch and Fellowship, culminating in graduation in August. Throughout the experience, participants work through business development steps, customer research, prototyping, and pitch preparation.

Who can apply

The programme is open to students and recent graduates from all academic disciplines and post-secondary institutions across Africa. Applicants do not need an established business, and individuals who are still exploring an idea are encouraged to participate.

Candidates must be willing to dedicate at least 10 hours per week to their entrepreneurial journey, meet assignment deadlines, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to developing their skills. Programme content is delivered in English, and assignments and business pitches must be completed in English, though applicants not fluent in English may apply by forming a team with someone who meets the requirements or seeking language support.

What you get

Participants gain access to entrepreneurship courses, structured business development training, experienced coaches, mentors, and industry experts. The programme provides guidance on customer research, market validation, business models, and prototype development, alongside networking opportunities with other African entrepreneurs and post-incubation support.

Selected Fellows who reach the final fellowship phase receive a USD 350 stipend and have access to seed funding opportunities. Participants also have the chance to compete in pitch competitions for additional financial support.

How to apply

Applications for the upcoming programme cycle have not yet launched. Interested candidates can visit the official fellowship webpage to sign up for notifications when applications open.

Applicants should review the eligibility requirements and prepare to explain the problem their business idea aims to solve, the people it will serve, and how the proposed solution creates impact.