Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2025 For Entrepreneurs: Apply Now!

About the Fellowship

The Commonwealth Scholarship Council (CSC) has announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Commonwealth Startup Fellowship. This fellowship is an extraordinary opportunity for entrepreneurs from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to enhance their startups through a combination of immersive in-person experiences and comprehensive online learning.

The program is designed to empower entrepreneurs with essential skills, cutting-edge industry knowledge, and a global network of peers and mentors. Over six months, participants will gain the tools necessary to build successful businesses, scale operations effectively, and create meaningful employment opportunities within their communities.

The fellowship is structured to provide a holistic learning and development experience, blending virtual and physical engagement. It includes an in-person boot camp held in Accra, Ghana, which offers intensive training and networking opportunities. The program is tailored to support innovative startups that demonstrate potential for significant growth and impact.

Organized by the Commonwealth Scholarship Council in collaboration with Imperial College London, this fellowship is part of the CSC’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the Commonwealth.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be considered:

Nationality and Residency:
- Applicants must be citizens of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country.
- Permanent residency in an eligible Commonwealth country is required.
Education and Language Proficiency:
- Applicants must have completed at least a graduate-level qualification.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory.
Fellowship Restrictions:
- Applicants must not have undertaken a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship in the five years prior to the start of this program.
- Participants must be available to begin the fellowship on the prescribed start date.
Startup Requirements:
- Evidence of innovation in product, service, or market development.
- Active startup development for a minimum of six months, supported by a committed team.
- A functional minimum viable product, service, or prototype.
- Clear evidence of customer engagement or traction, such as early sales, pre-sales, signed contracts, or other relevant documentation demonstrating demand or interest.

Benefits of the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2025

Participants in the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2025 will receive a comprehensive support package that includes:

Travel and Accommodation:
- Approved return travel from the participant’s home country to Accra, Ghana, for the in-person boot camp.
- Accommodation, local transportation, and meals are provided during the boot camp in Accra.
Financial Support:
- Reimbursement for the standard visa application fee.
- Reimbursement for vaccination costs required for travel to Ghana.
- Access to a Fellow’s Grant Fund, which can be used to cover costs related to business development or participation in the program.

Additional Support:
- Participants with declared disabilities will undergo a full needs assessment, and financial support will be provided based on the assessment’s findings.

Program Goals

The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship aims to foster entrepreneurship as a driver of economic growth and innovation. It seeks to create a network of entrepreneurs who are equipped to tackle challenges, build scalable businesses, and contribute to the sustainable development of their countries.

Through this program, the CSC and Imperial College London intend to empower entrepreneurs with the skills and resources necessary to succeed in competitive markets while also addressing pressing global challenges through innovative solutions.

Selection Criteria

The selection process will consider the following factors:

The innovative nature of the startup’s product, service, or market.

The stage of development and level of commitment demonstrated by the startup team.
Evidence of customer traction or demand, including sales, contracts, or pre-sales data.
The applicant’s ability to articulate a clear vision for scaling the startup and creating impact within their community.

How to Apply

Applicants must follow these steps to submit their application:

Review Eligibility:
- Visit the official program website to ensure eligibility requirements are met.

Prepare Documentation:
- Submit a scan of a valid passport or national identification card.
- Provide details of academic qualifications and employment history.
- Include comprehensive information about the startup, focusing on innovation, product development, and customer traction.
- Write and submit essays as specified in the application form.
- Include the contact information for referees who can provide recommendations.

Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the official application form with all required details, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Submit the Application:
- Ensure the application is submitted before the deadline of January 15, 2025.

Applications are now open, and interested candidates are encouraged to seize this opportunity to take their startups to new heights. The deadline for submissions is January 15, 2025.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY