WITH ACCESS TO FUNDING : Apply for the Green RISE East Africa Fellowship 2026
Applications are now open for the Green RISE East Africa Fellowship 2026, a leadership and enterprise development programme supporting entrepreneurs who are building climate solutions while creating inclusive economic opportunities across Africa.
Delivered by Acumen Academy in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the fellowship aims to strengthen a new generation of green business leaders driving sustainable growth, job creation, and climate resilience across East Africa.
About the Fellowship
The Green RISE Africa Fellowship (Resilient Impact through Sustainable Entrepreneurship) focuses on empowering entrepreneurs who are transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.
Participants gain practical tools, leadership training, and access to a strong peer network designed to help scale enterprises that deliver both social and environmental impact.
The programme supports innovators working in sectors such as:
- Clean and renewable energy
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Circular economy and waste solutions
- Sustainable food systems
- Green job creation initiatives
The fellowship places particular emphasis on enterprises improving livelihoods for women and youth, especially in rural communities.
Learning Experience
The fellowship curriculum blends leadership development with real-world business application, covering areas such as:
- Adaptive leadership and systems thinking
- Storytelling for climate impact
- Inclusive job creation strategies
- Ethical and values-based leadership
- Stakeholder engagement and partnership building
Fellows continue running their enterprises while committing approximately 10 hours per month to programme activities.
Long-Term Opportunities
Upon completion, fellows join a global community of over 2,000 social innovators working across sectors including climate, agriculture, education, healthcare, and workforce development.
Graduates may also access future opportunities under the Green RISE Africa Accelerator, designed to help early-stage green enterprises strengthen business models and scale impact.
Don't miss out on the application deadline which is May 11, 2026.
Additional Information
Key Benefits
-Impact-focused leadership training
- Enterprise growth frameworks and practical tools
- Peer learning within a regional cohort
- Mentorship and continuous accompaniment
- Access to funding and collaboration opportunities
- Entry into Acumen’s global alumni network, The Foundry
Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Burundi, South Sudan, and Somalia
Ideal applicants are individuals who:
Lead or co-lead a green enterprise or social venture
Are creating dignified employment opportunities for young people and women
Are addressing climate challenges through innovative business solutions
Demonstrate commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic development
Seek leadership growth alongside enterprise expansion
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