Western Union Foundation Fellowship Program is designed for early-stage ventures led by individuals from or working with highly marginalized, refugee, and forcibly displaced communities around the globe.
- Early-stage ventures are those with a working prototype/product or service that already has active customers or beneficiaries, and can demonstrate a track record of impact and revenue.
- Ideally, you’re at the stage where you’re exploring how your project can best reach and benefit its target audience.
What are the benefits of the program?
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship offers a comprehensive package to help you grow and scale your social impact project. Here’s what you can expect:
- Expert-Led Training: Gain valuable knowledge and skills through workshops led by experienced entrepreneurs and professionals. You’ll learn about essential topics like foundations of social ventures, data and metrics, go-to-market strategies, funding opportunities, team management, and pitching your idea effectively.
- Networking Opportunities: Build a strong network of like-minded social changemakers from around the world. Connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators who can support you on your journey.
- Seed Funding: The program awards a total of $45,000 in seed funding to selected fellows. This funding can be crucial for taking your project to the next level.
- Basecamp Facilitation: You’ll have the opportunity to facilitate an impact workshop and training (called a Basecamp) in your own community. This allows you to share your knowledge and empower others to create positive change. The program will provide a stipend, resources, and support to help you run a successful Basecamp.
- Mentorship: The program connects Fellows with experienced mentors who can offer guidance, support, and valuable insights based on their own entrepreneurial journeys.
- Immersive Orientation: Kick-off the program with a two-week virtual immersive experience. This intensive period will provide a deep dive into the program’s core topics and build a strong foundation for your fellowship journey.
- Impact Series: Learn from the best as the program invites renowned leaders, entrepreneurs, and practitioners to share their experiences and insights with you.
- Culminating Summit: The program concludes with a community event where you can pitch your project to local leaders, potential funders, and other entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable exposure and support for your venture.
What countries are eligible?
While applications from all countries are welcome, priority will be given to individuals from or working in the following countries:
- Argentina
- Bangladesh
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Japan
- Lithuania
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Uganda
- United Kingdom
- United States
How long is the program?
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship is a 16-week program running from October 2nd, 2024 to February 15th, 2025. There will be a two-week break in December.
The program format is a mix of virtual and localized:
- Weekly virtual workshops: You’ll participate in weekly online sessions led by experts. These sessions will require a time commitment of approximately 6-8 hours per week.
- Immersive & Orientation: The program begins with a two-week intensive virtual immersive experience requiring a time commitment of 20-25 hours per week.
- Localized gatherings & events: Whenever possible, the program will also organize in-person gatherings and events to foster deeper connections between Fellows.
How to Apply:
If you’re ready to take your social impact project to the next level, here’s how to apply:
- Complete the online application: The application consists of four short essay questions and should take about 45 minutes to complete. The application deadline is August 18th, 2023
- Rolling Review: The program team will review applications on a rolling basis starting on July 7th, 2023.
- Interview: If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a 20-minute Zoom interview. Interviews will begin on July 10th, 2023.
- Admissions Committee Review: The strongest applications will be reviewed by an external admissions committee for final selection.
- Acceptances Announced: The admissions team will start notifying successful applicants and awarding fellowships in mid-August. Application timelines will mirror the rolling review process (refer to point 2).
- Fellows Confirm & Enroll: The final step is to review and sign the program’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to confirm your enrollment.
Deadline
The deadline for the application is August 18th, 2024.
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship is a unique opportunity for passionate social changemakers to develop their skills, build valuable networks, and secure funding for their impactful projects. If you’re ready to make a real difference in the world, we encourage you to apply today!