Are you an African student or recent graduate with a bold entrepreneurial idea? The Mastercard Foundation Jim Leech Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2026 is designed just for you, a free, eight-month virtual accelerator that provides the knowledge, resources, mentorship, and financial support you need to launch a meaningful startup.
What the Programme Offers
The fellowship follows a structured three-phase online journey that helps you build confidence and develop the skills to become a successful founder. Participants will benefit from:
- Expert-led training delivered by Queen’s University faculty and seasoned industry professionals.
- The Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework, a proven startup-building method developed at MIT.
- Pitch coaching, live workshops on marketing, team building, and goal setting.
- Micro-credentials awarded by Queen’s University upon successful course completion.
- Access to a global alumni network of entrepreneurs and mentors across North America and Africa.
- Financial support, including stipends of CAD $500 for up to 60 finalists and a chance to win up to CAD $15,000 in the final pitch competition.
Programme Timeline (2026)
Mark your calendar for the upcoming cohort:
- Applications Close: December 15, 2025 (12:59 PM ET)
- Notification of Selection: End of December 2025
- Phase 1 – Explore Entrepreneurship: January – February 2026
- Phase 2 – Ignite Entrepreneurship: March – April 2026
- Phase 3 – Launch & Fellowship: May – August 2026
This three-phase program gives you the flexibility to learn, develop your business idea, and launch your venture step-by-step.
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Who Should Apply
The fellowship is open to:
- Students and recent graduates from any African post-secondary institution and academic discipline.
- Individuals passionate about solving real-world problems or starting a new business venture.
- Applicants are willing to commit at least 10 hours per week to the program.
- Participants who can work in English for assignments and pitches (mentorship may also be available in French).
- Aspiring entrepreneurs based in Africa, ready to connect with a pan-African community of changemakers.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
- Completely Free: There are no application or participation fees.
- Proven Impact: Over 80% of past fellows have gone on to hire youth or gain paying customers for their ventures.
- Inclusive Environment: The fellowship encourages women to apply and supports those with limited internet access or language barriers.
- Real Startup Growth: Participants receive direct mentorship, access to incubation resources, and real seed funding opportunities from the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre (DDQIC).
How to Apply
- Visit the official Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship page at Queen’s University’s DDQIC.
- Prepare a strong application outlining your idea, academic background, and entrepreneurial goals.
- Submit your application before December 15, 2025 (12:59 PM ET).
- Successful candidates will be notified by the end of December 2025 and begin Phase 1 in January 2026.
For inquiries, visit the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship platform.
