Applications are now open for the 2025 Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship. This fellowship offers African students and recent graduates the chance to develop their entrepreneurial abilities with access to training, financial aid, resources, and guidance from mentors. Through this 8-month program, participants will sharpen their entrepreneurial mindset and acquire skills to launch or expand their ventures, driving both social and economic impact.

Eligibility for the program extends to students and recent graduates from any field of study and from any post-secondary institution across Africa. Whether you're already working on a business idea or are just starting, the program provides support to help you on your journey. Applicants should be dedicated to building an entrepreneurial mindset and making full use of the provided resources to establish their enterprises. The program is fully virtual, with the flexibility to complete it at your own pace, though those who are truly committed will dedicate at least 10 hours per week. Participants will need to submit assignments online and follow strict deadlines to advance through the different stages of the program.

While the program is delivered in English, mentorship may be offered in both English and French. All assignments and presentations must be completed in English, but those who aren't proficient in English are still encouraged to apply by forming teams with someone who can meet the language requirements. Applicants can also collaborate with their local universities to access resources that will help overcome language challenges.

Participants will benefit from a business bootcamp conducted by faculty from Queen’s University, alongside industry professionals with vast experience in entrepreneurship and executive roles. They will also follow the Disciplined Entrepreneurship model, a well-known framework for building scalable businesses developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Additionally, participants will receive pitch coaching, and workshops on topics such as marketing, goal setting, and recruitment. Those who successfully complete the courses will earn entrepreneurship micro-certifications from Queen’s University.

The fellowship provides numerous opportunities for mentorship and networking. Participants will have the chance to interact with mentors and leaders in entrepreneurship and innovation in North America, tap into Queen’s University’s global entrepreneurial network, and connect with other students and graduates across Africa. In the final stages of the program, fellows will be matched with industry professionals and entrepreneurs to receive valuable feedback on their ventures.

Financial support is also available. Up to 60 fellows in the final phase will receive a $500 CAD stipend, and there will be opportunities to compete for prizes of up to $15,000 CAD in the program’s pitch competition. Selected participants may also have the chance to travel to the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre, where they can forge connections that will further their business goals.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity