Applications are now open for the Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship 2026, a fully funded virtual fellowship powered by the Watson Institute. The programme is designed for entrepreneurs and community leaders developing innovative solutions in mobility, transportation, and accessibility.
This prestigious fellowship equips participants with world-class entrepreneurial training, expert mentorship, financial support, and access to a global network of innovators to help scale impactful ventures that improve transportation and mobility in underserved communities.
Fellowship Summary
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship 2026 |
| Sponsor | Ford Philanthropy |
| Powered By | Watson Institute |
| Programme Type | Fully Funded Virtual Fellowship |
| Format | Online |
| Eligible Applicants | Entrepreneurs & Community Leaders |
| Focus Areas | Mobility, Transportation & Accessibility |
| Application Deadline | 15 August 2026 (Priority Deadline) |
| Programme Duration | September 2026 – January 2027 |
About the Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship is an intensive leadership and venture development programme that supports entrepreneurs working to create affordable, reliable, safe, and accessible transportation solutions.
Participants receive practical training, mentorship from mobility experts, business development support, and access to an international community of innovators. The programme is specifically designed for founders whose ventures have already demonstrated measurable impact and are ready to scale.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Fully funded participation in the fellowship.
- Comprehensive entrepreneurship and leadership training.
- Personalized mentorship from mobility and business experts.
- Access to financial tools and venture development resources.
- A US$1,000 stipend to organize a community Basecamp workshop.
- A Basecamp playbook and implementation support from the Watson Institute.
- Access to a global network of more than 6,000 entrepreneurs across 81 countries.
- Opportunity to showcase their venture during a global virtual summit.
- Long-term alumni support and networking opportunities.
Programme Structure
The fellowship runs virtually from September 2026 through January 2027 and includes:
- Virtual orientation and immersive onboarding.
- Weekly live workshops.
- Business and leadership development sessions.
- Expert mentorship.
- Peer collaboration.
- Community Basecamp implementation.
- Global virtual summit.
Participants should expect to dedicate approximately 8–10 hours per week throughout the programme.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be an entrepreneur or community leader.
- Be building a venture focused on mobility, transportation, or accessibility.
- Have an existing venture operating for approximately 1–5 years.
- Demonstrate measurable community impact.
- Have secured some level of support through grants, revenue, investments, or donations.
- Be committed to participating fully in the fellowship.
- Be ready to scale their venture to reach more people.
Priority Countries
The fellowship targets entrepreneurs operating in Ford Philanthropy priority markets, including:
- Brazil
- Germany
- Mexico
- Philippines
- South Africa
- Spain
- Thailand
- United Kingdom
- Vietnam
Applicants should review the official eligibility requirements to confirm country participation.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
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- Completed online application form.
- Personal profile.
- Venture information.
- Description of community impact.
- Leadership experience.
- Any additional documents requested during the application process.
How to Apply
To apply:
- Visit the official Watson Institute application portal.
- Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide detailed information about your venture and its impact.
- Submit your application before the priority deadline.
Application Deadline
Priority Application Deadline: 15 August 2026
Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Why You Should Apply
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship is ideal for entrepreneurs working to transform mobility and transportation systems in their communities. Beyond world-class training, fellows receive mentorship, financial support, international exposure, and access to an influential network of innovators. The programme helps participants strengthen their ventures, expand their impact, and contribute to more equitable and sustainable transportation solutions worldwide.
Conclusion
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs and community leaders dedicated to improving mobility and transportation. Through fully funded virtual training, personalized mentorship, a US$1,000 community stipend, and access to a global network, the fellowship provides the resources needed to scale impactful ventures and create lasting change. If your organization is addressing transportation or accessibility challenges, submit your application before the 15 August 2026 priority deadline.
