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About the Fully Funded Western Union Global Fellowship Program
The Western Union Fellowship is a prestigious, immersive, and fully funded experience tailored for entrepreneurs committed to driving systemic change in underserved communities. It is open to both nonprofit and for-profit social entrepreneurs.
Whether you are from Nigeria, Uganda, or another eligible country, this program provides an unparalleled opportunity to:
- Accelerate your leadership journey
- Receive mentorship from global industry experts
- Get practical, hands-on skills in entrepreneurship and innovation
- Expand your network across continents
- Gain visibility for your venture
The Western Union Fellowship culminates in a recorded pitch video and participation in a Virtual Summit, where fellows present their ideas to a global audience.
Are you a bold entrepreneur from Nigeria or Uganda working to solve challenges faced by marginalized or displaced communities? Do you want to take your social impact venture to the next level with world-class training, global exposure, mentorship, and funding—all at zero cost?
The Western Union Global Fellowship Program 2025, hosted by Watson Institute, is a fully funded impact-focused fellowship designed for trailblazing leaders from or working with marginalized, refugee, or displaced populations. This program empowers passionate changemakers to scale their ventures and deepen their impact while building a powerful global network.
Eligible Fields
The Western Union Fellowship focuses on ventures involved in social entrepreneurship—including both nonprofit and for-profit models—that address systemic issues in marginalized communities. Sectors can include but are not limited to:
- Education
- Health
- Women and youth empowerment
- Climate justice
- Refugee support and integration
- Financial inclusion
- Access to technology
- Rural development
The emphasis is on ventures that aim to create equitable, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to pressing social problems.
Eligibility Criteria
This fellowship is designed for entrepreneurs who:
- Identify with or actively support marginalized, refugee, or displaced communities through their ventures.
- Have a venture already in operation (early-stage or growth-stage).
- Show strong potential for scaling and deepening the impact of their work.
- Are committed to full participation in all program components and activities.
If you are passionate, visionary, and ready to grow both personally and professionally, this opportunity is for you.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated through a competitive selection process based on:
- Potential for Social Impact: How effectively the venture addresses issues faced by underserved communities.
- Business Model Strength: Viability, scalability, and sustainability of the existing venture.
- Leadership Readiness: Demonstrated commitment, initiative, and the ability to lead with empathy and resilience.
- Interview Performance: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a virtual interview to assess alignment with the fellowship’s values and goals.
Eligible Countries
The program accepts applications from entrepreneurs creating impact in or originating from the following countries:
- Nigeria
- Uganda
- India
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Mexico
- Germany
- Pakistan
- Costa Rica
- Argentina
- Philippines
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Lithuania
- Bangladesh
Applicants from Nigeria and Uganda are especially encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the Fully Funded Western Union Global Fellowship Program
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package of support, including:
- 100% Tuition-Free Fellowship: All program costs are fully covered.
- Global Mentorship: Access to mentors who are experienced entrepreneurs and professionals.
- Skill-Building Workshops: Focused on topics like venture strategy, leadership, growth, and systems change.
- Pitch Video Creation: Receive guidance to create a compelling pitch video to present your venture to a broader audience.
- Virtual Summit Participation: Share your work on a global stage and connect with fellow innovators.
- Basecamp Stipend: Financial support to organize a community-focused event or workshop.
- Entrepreneur-in-Residence Support: One-on-one guidance from industry leaders to support your venture development.
- Watson Institute Alumni Network: Lifelong membership in a thriving, global network of over 500 changemakers from 70+ countries.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete:
- Complete the Online Application: Provide details about yourself, your venture, and your vision for impact.
- Participate in a Zoom Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to discuss their goals and alignment with the fellowship.
- Final Selection: Chosen fellows will be notified by July 25, 2025.
Program Kickoff: The fellowship officially begins on August 25, 2025.
Note: The deadline for application of this fellowship is as follows:
- Priority Deadline: July 1, 2025
- Rolling Admissions: Applications will continue to be reviewed after the priority deadline on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.
Ready to Lead Change?
Don’t miss your chance to become part of a prestigious and supportive global fellowship program designed for leaders like you.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
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