Applications are open for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2026 — a fully funded program offering mentorship, training, and seed funding up to $5,000 for young African entrepreneurs. Apply by December 15, 2025.
Empowering the Next Generation of African Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2026, a fully funded program designed to nurture and empower young African changemakers with entrepreneurial potential.
Hosted by Queen’s University’s Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre (DDQIC) in Canada, this prestigious fellowship offers world-class entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and seed funding opportunities for innovators who aspire to create scalable, sustainable ventures that address pressing challenges across Africa.
Through the fellowship, participants gain access to a 12-month virtual entrepreneurship curriculum, mentorship from global business leaders, and a chance to win up to USD $5,000 in venture funding to bring their ideas to life.
“The Fellowship is a platform for African youth to transform bold ideas into impactful enterprises. It is designed to help the next generation of leaders build businesses that drive inclusive growth across the continent.”
— Jim Leech, Chancellor Emeritus, Queen’s University
About the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship equips young Africans with the tools, resources, and networks they need to succeed in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The program focuses on building entrepreneurial mindsets, problem-solving skills, and business leadership capabilities to help fellows create sustainable solutions to local and global challenges.
It combines academic learning, practical business incubation, and community impact, allowing fellows to not only learn entrepreneurship but practice it — with hands-on mentorship and support.
Program Highlights
Fellows will participate in a 12-month blended learning program delivered by experts from the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre (DDQIC) at Queen’s University.
Key Features:
- Fully Funded Training: All program fees covered by the Mastercard Foundation.
- Entrepreneurship Curriculum: Interactive modules covering ideation, business modeling, finance, and leadership.
- Mentorship: Direct guidance from successful entrepreneurs and investors.
- Seed Funding: Up to $5,000 USD available for top-performing ventures.
- Networking: Access to the global Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network and Queen’s University Entrepreneurship Ecosystem.
- Certificate of Completion: Issued by Queen’s University, Canada.
This program is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs who are eager to turn their ideas into impactful ventures in Africa’s growing innovation landscape.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Be aged 18–35 years old at the time of application.
- Be a citizen of any African country.
- Be a student, recent graduate, or early-stage entrepreneur with an innovative business idea.
- Have a reliable internet connection and be able to participate in a virtual learning environment.
- Demonstrate commitment, creativity, and a desire to drive social or business impact.
Entrepreneurs at any stage of development — from idea to early startup — are encouraged to apply.
Program Structure
| Stage | Focus Area | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1: Explore & Learn | Develop entrepreneurial mindsets, validate your idea, and understand market needs. | 3 months |
| Stage 2: Build & Pitch | Refine your business model and deliver investor-style presentations. | 4 months |
| Stage 3: Launch & Scale | Access funding, mentorship, and resources to grow your venture. | 5 months |
Throughout the program, fellows receive continuous feedback from mentors, industry experts, and peers — ensuring real-world application of their skills.
What You’ll Gain
- World-class entrepreneurial training from Queen’s University experts.
- Practical experience in launching and scaling a business.
- Professional coaching and feedback from global business leaders.
- Networking with young entrepreneurs and Mastercard Foundation Alumni.
- Seed funding opportunities for business growth.
- Global recognition as a Mastercard Foundation Fellow.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official application portal:
👉 https://www.ddqic.queensu.ca/jimleechfellowship - Complete the online form and submit your personal statement.
- Upload a summary of your business idea or project concept.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend virtual interviews.
Program Start Date: January 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive selection process.
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About the Organizers
Queen’s University (Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre – DDQIC)
Located in Kingston, Canada, DDQIC is one of North America’s leading university-based innovation hubs. It helps students and young professionals transform ideas into successful ventures through mentorship, incubation, and global partnerships.
The Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organizations to advance financial inclusion, youth employment, and education across Africa. Through its Young Africa Works Strategy, the Foundation aims to enable 30 million young Africans to secure dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.
Why Apply for the Fellowship?
The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship is more than a training program — it’s a launchpad for Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs.
By combining Canadian academic excellence with African innovation, the program empowers young leaders to tackle challenges in:
- Climate innovation and sustainability
- Fintech and digital inclusion
- Agribusiness and food security
- Education and youth empowerment
- Health and social impact
Graduates of the program become part of a global alumni network of entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors driving Africa’s transformation.
Meta Description
Applications are open for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2026 — a fully funded program offering mentorship, training, and seed funding up to $5,000 for young African entrepreneurs. Apply by December 15, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2026?
Young African innovators aged 18–35 who have a business idea or startup and want to develop entrepreneurial skills.
2. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. The Mastercard Foundation covers all costs related to training, mentorship, and program participation.
3. Do I need a business already running to apply?
No. You can apply with just an innovative idea, provided you demonstrate commitment and vision.
4. How long does the fellowship last?
The program runs for 12 months and includes online learning, mentorship, and project implementation.
5. Is there a participation fee?
No. The fellowship is completely free for all selected fellows.
6. What can I gain from the fellowship?
You’ll receive training, mentorship, access to networks, and potential seed funding up to $5,000 USD.
7. How can I apply?
Apply directly on the official website:
👉 https://www.ddqic.queensu.ca/jimleechfellowship
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