Imperial College London has announced the launch of the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship, an ambitious six-month accelerator programme designed to equip startups from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries with the tools they need to scale their businesses, create jobs, and make a sustainable impact.
This groundbreaking initiative is being delivered in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), underscoring the commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in underrepresented markets.
Unlocking Opportunities for Startup Founders
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship is set to empower innovative entrepreneurs who are leading high-potential businesses in their local markets. The programme is a rare opportunity for founders to access a wealth of resources, including fully funded mentorship, bespoke business support, and global networks. Participants will attend a two-week intensive bootcamp at Imperial Global Ghana in Accra, with a select group moving on to the prestigious Imperial College London for a capstone event.
The Fellowship aims to position startups as catalysts for change by addressing pressing challenges unique to their regions and enabling entrepreneurs to build solutions that resonate globally.
Comprehensive Support for Growth and Innovation
The programme offers a robust set of benefits to participating startups:
- Equity-free Fellows Fund: Receive financial support without sacrificing ownership.
- Fully Funded Bootcamp in Accra: Dive into an immersive learning experience at Imperial Global Ghana.
- Tailored Coaching and Workshops: Access online sessions with industry experts to refine business strategies and operations.
- Global Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse community of entrepreneurs and partners across the Commonwealth.
- Investor and Partner Engagement: Pitch to potential investors and collaborators, positioning your startup for sustainable growth.
Who Should Apply?
The Fellowship is open to founders leading startups registered in eligible Commonwealth countries. Applicants should demonstrate early-stage traction and the potential for significant impact in their communities. This programme is particularly suited to entrepreneurs who are passionate about solving local challenges through innovative, scalable solutions.
How to Apply
Applications are now open, with two key deadlines to keep in mind:
- Early Application Deadline: Wednesday, 15 January 2025
- Final Deadline: Monday, 17 February 2025
Startup founders can gain additional insights and guidance by attending one of the upcoming online information sessions on Monday, 6 January:
- 10 AM (GMT) – Register here
- 5 PM (GMT) – Register here
Programme Schedule and Key Highlights
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship begins with a two-week bootcamp in Accra, Ghana, where entrepreneurs will participate in hands-on workshops, mentorship sessions, and peer networking. The bootcamp is designed to refine their business models and enhance their strategic approach.
Following the bootcamp, selected startups will attend a final capstone event at Imperial College London, UK, where they will showcase their solutions to a global audience of investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
Driving Global Impact Through Local Solutions
This initiative seeks to amplify the potential of entrepreneurs across the Commonwealth by providing them with the resources, expertise, and exposure they need to thrive in competitive markets. By empowering startups with tailored support, the Fellowship underscores the belief that sustainable solutions to global challenges often begin at the grassroots level.
The programme also serves as a platform for fostering cross-border collaboration, encouraging the exchange of ideas, and creating a network of innovators committed to driving change within their regions and beyond.
Eligible Countries
To qualify for the Fellowship, startups must register in one of the following Commonwealth countries:
Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, St Helena, St Lucia, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia.
Apply Today
This is a rare and valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs to accelerate their growth and create meaningful impact through innovation. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative programme.
📢 Submit your application here: https://lnkd.in/dgu4bpHV
