Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship for Young Entrepreneurs

Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship for Young Entrepreneurs


Learn all about the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship 2025 for young African entrepreneurs. This programme helps you build a business with training, mentors, and funding support. Keep reading to find out how to apply.


Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship — offers young African entrepreneurs support, training, and financial backing

The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2025 is now accepting applications.

This exciting programme offers African students and recent graduates the chance to develop entrepreneurial skills and create their own ventures.



Participants will receive training, resources, and financial support through an 8-month programme aimed at nurturing future business leaders.
InformationDetails📅 Fellowship Name Jim Leech Fellowship
🌍 Eligibility African Students
💡 Focus Entrepreneurship
💰 Financial Aid Up to $15,000 CAD
📈 Phases Three Courses
🌐 Location Online Program
📝 Application Deadline December 4, 2024
🎓 Duration 8 Months


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Programme Structure

The fellowship is divided into three online courses.

Each course helps you build a strong foundation in entrepreneurship.

You will receive virtual coaching and develop your own business idea.

Those who demonstrate commitment can progress to the next course.


Fellowship Benefits

The programme provides many benefits to those who are willing to fully participate.
Best-in-Class TrainingBusiness bootcamp taught by Queen’s University faculty and industry experts
Disciplined Entrepreneurship framework, developed at MIT, which is a step-by-step method for startups
Pitch coaching to refine your presentation skills
Live workshops on marketing, goal setting, and recruiting
Micro-credentials in entrepreneurship awarded by Queen’s University upon course completion
Mentorship and NetworkingAccess mentors and speakers from the entrepreneurial community in North America
Join a global network of Queen’s entrepreneurial alumni
Connect with fellow participants from across Africa
Matched to industry leaders and entrepreneurs in the final phase of the programme
Receive feedback at key business milestones
Financial Support and OpportunitiesUp to 60 fellows will receive a $500 CAD stipend
Pitch competition prizes of up to $15,000 CAD
Opportunity to travel to Queen’s Innovation Centre in Canada to build connections
Fellowship Eligibility

The programme is open to students and recent graduates from African universities.

No matter your academic discipline, you can apply whether you have an existing business or want to start a new one.

Participants should be committed to developing an entrepreneurial mindset.

The programme is virtual, and you can complete it at your own pace.

The most dedicated participants spend at least 10 hours each week on their projects.
Language Requirements

The programme is delivered in English, with mentorship available in English and French.

Assignments and pitches must be completed in English, but prospective fellows can work with a partner or their local university to overcome language challenges.
Application Timeline

Applications close on 4 December 2024 at 12:59 PM EST.

The fellowship is divided into three phases:Explore Entrepreneurship – January to February 2025
Ignite Entrepreneurship – March to April 2025
Launch Entrepreneurship – May to August 2025

To apply, visit the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship application page.

For more details, visit the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship website.

This is a chance for you to build the confidence, network, and knowledge to turn your ideas into reality.