Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027 at Queen’s University: Free Online Entrepreneurship Training, Mentorship and Startup Funding for African Students
Overview
The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship is an eight-month entrepreneurship development programme intended for young Africans addressing social, economic, environmental, agricultural, technological, and community challenges. Offered by the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the initiative helps African university students and recent graduates turn innovative ideas into viable businesses and impactful social enterprises.
The programme follows a structured framework that guides participants from exploring an idea to testing a business model and preparing to launch or scale a venture. Delivered entirely virtually, the fellowship allows participants to work through the curriculum remotely without relocating to Canada, though they must complete assignments and meet deadlines to advance through successive stages.
Who can apply
The programme is open to African university students and recent graduates. Applicants do not need to have an established business, as individuals who are still exploring an idea can participate in the early stages. Participants are expected to demonstrate commitment and progress in order to advance through the successive phases of the programme.
What you get
Participants receive free access to structured online entrepreneurship learning resources, including the Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework. The programme features business bootcamps and expert-led workshops facilitated by Queen’s University faculty and industry professionals, covering topics such as marketing, business planning, team building, prototyping, leadership, and pitching.
Fellows also gain mentorship and professional networking opportunities by connecting with experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, programme coaches, and peers from across Africa. Selected fellows in the final programme phase receive dedicated coaching and mentorship from the global network of the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre, alongside opportunities to compete for startup funding and financial support.
Key dates
The application deadline is December 1, 2026.