Are you a young African innovator with a bold idea that can solve real challenges in your community? The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2026 is your chance to turn that idea into a thriving business. This fully funded programme offers intensive entrepreneurship training, mentorship from global experts, and seed funding to help you grow your startup from concept to scale.
About the Jim Leech Mastercard Fellowship
The fellowship is hosted by Queen’s University, Canada, through the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre (DDQIC). It’s a free, virtual, and fully funded fellowship designed for university students and recent graduates from African countries. The programme empowers participants with world-class entrepreneurial skills and connects them to a global network of mentors and investors.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Jim Leech Mastercard Fellowship on Entrepreneurship
- We accept students and recent graduates from all academic disciplines, and from any African post-secondary institution. Whether you are already working on a business or you are looking to start something new, we can help you.
- We are looking for participants who are committed to developing their entrepreneurial mindset and taking advantage of the resources provided to develop their own enterprise.
- The program is delivered virtually and can be completed at any pace, however the most committed participants will commit at least 10 hours per week. In order to progress through the program phases, participants will submit assignments online, adhering to strict deadlines.
- The program content is delivered in English. Mentorship may be offered in English and French.
- Assignments and pitches must be completed in English. Prospective fellows who are unable to speak or write English are still encouraged to apply and form teams with someone who can fulfill all the requirements of the program in English.
- Prospective fellows may also work with their local university to come up with a strategy to make sure they are able to access university resources that will help them navigate the challenge related to language ability.
Benefits of Jim leech fellowship
- Top-notch mentoring, networking, and training
- Opportunities and Financial Assistance
- In the last stage, up to 60 Fellows will be chosen to receive a $500 CAD stipend.
- Possibilities to travel to the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre to form enduring relationships that will support your business endeavours; chances to compete for prizes of up to $15,000 CAD in the programme’s pitch competition.
Program details of the fellowship
Who Can Apply
You’re eligible if you meet these criteria:
- You are a citizen of any African country.
- You are a student, recent graduate, or young professional with an entrepreneurial idea.
- You are passionate about solving local or regional challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship.
- You can commit fully to the 8-month online programme.
Program timeline
Phase 1: Explore (January-February)
Phase 2: Ignite (March-April)
Phase 3: Launch and Fellowship (May-August)
Graduation (August)
How to apply
How to Apply
- Visit the official application page for the 2026 Jim Leech Mastercard Fellowship on Entrepreneurship.
- Fill out the application form with your personal and business idea details.
- Submit all required documents, including your CV and idea summary.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.
- Ensure you watch their pitch to understand how you can pitch your own idea.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
