The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 is now accepting applications. This programme is designed for African students and recent graduates who want to develop their entrepreneurial skills and create their own ventures. Through this 8-month program, participants will receive world-class training, access to resources, and financial support, helping to shape future business leaders across Africa.
Fellowship Details
- Fellowship Name: Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship
- Eligibility: African Students and Recent Graduates
- Focus: Entrepreneurship
- Financial Aid: Up to $15,000 CAD
- Program Phases: Three online courses
- Location: Online
- Application Deadline: December 4, 2024
- Duration: 8 Months
Programme Structure
The fellowship is divided into three online courses, designed to help participants build a solid foundation in entrepreneurship. Each course includes virtual coaching and hands-on experience to develop and launch a business idea. Dedicated participants have the opportunity to progress through the programme and build lasting entrepreneurial skills.
Fellowship Benefits
Participants in the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship enjoy multiple benefits:
-
Best-in-Class Training:
- Business bootcamp led by Queen’s University faculty and industry experts
- Step-by-step “Disciplined Entrepreneurship” framework from MIT
- Pitch coaching and live workshops on marketing, goal setting, and recruiting
- Micro-credentials in entrepreneurship awarded by Queen’s University
-
Mentorship & Networking:
- Access to mentors and speakers from the North American entrepreneurial community
- Connections with a global network of Queen’s entrepreneurial alumni and fellow participants across Africa
- Matched mentorship with industry leaders and entrepreneurs
-
Financial Support & Opportunities:
- $500 CAD stipend for up to 60 fellows
- Pitch competition prizes up to $15,000 CAD
- Opportunity to visit Queen’s Innovation Centre in Canada
Fellowship Eligibility
The programme is open to African university students and recent graduates from any academic discipline. Participants should have an entrepreneurial mindset, whether starting a new venture or developing an existing business. The program is virtual, self-paced, and requires a commitment of at least 10 hours per week.
Language Requirements
The fellowship is delivered in English, and mentorship is available in both English and French. Participants must complete assignments and pitches in English, but can seek language support through partners or their local universities.
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: December 4, 2024 (12:59 PM EST)
- Phases:
- Explore Entrepreneurship: January - February 2025
- Ignite Entrepreneurship: March - April 2025
- Launch Entrepreneurship: May - August 2025
Apply now
Apply on the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship application page. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your ideas into reality and gain the skills, confidence, and network to succeed.
For more information, visit the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship website.
Conclusion
The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 offers a unique opportunity for African students and recent graduates to turn their business ideas into reality. With world-class training, mentorship, financial support, and the chance to connect with a global entrepreneurial network, this programme is designed to equip future business leaders with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience apply before the deadline on December 4, 2024, and take the first step toward launching your entrepreneurial journey.
Related
- Mastercard Foundation/Arizona State University Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2025
- Anzisha Prize Venture Building Fellowship 2025 For Young Entrepreneurs: Apply Now
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Cambridge 2025/2026: Applications Open
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University: Now Accepting Applications
- Unlock Your Potential with AUB Lebanon MasterCard Foundation Scholarships