The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 is an 8-month program designed to equip African students and recent graduates with the skills, resources, and support to launch their own ventures.

The program focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills and mindset, providing participants with the confidence, knowledge, and network to create impactful startups.

It is split into three online courses, covering the foundations of entrepreneurship, virtual coaching, business idea development, and commitment demonstration.

Scope of Work

The program is structured into three phases: Explore Entrepreneurship (January-February 2025), Ignite Entrepreneurship (March-April 2025), and Launch Entrepreneurship (May-August 2025).

Participants will engage in online courses, receive mentorship, and participate in workshops on various topics like marketing, goal setting, and recruiting.

Successful completion of the courses leads to the award of micro-credentials on Entrepreneurship from Queen's University.

Eligibility

The fellowship is open to students and recent graduates from all academic disciplines and any African post-secondary institution.

Participants should be committed to developing their entrepreneurial mindset and utilizing the provided resources to build their own enterprises.

The program is delivered virtually and can be completed at any pace, with a recommended commitment of at least 10 hours per week.

Proficiency in English is required for program participation, with mentorship available in both English and French.

Budget and Duration

Up to 60 Fellows will be selected in the final phase to receive a stipend of $500 CAD.

Participants also have the opportunity to compete for prizes of up to $15,000 CAD in a pitch competition at the end of the program.

The program spans eight months, from January to August 2025.

Key Dates

The application deadline is December 4, 2024, at 12:59 pm EST.

For More funding Opportunities, Visit Global Funding Opportunities.