Skip to main content

Impact Fellowships


Venture and leadership development programs designed to support highly promising rising entrepreneurs.

Applications deadlines approaching

Stay tuned—more Fellowships will open this Fall! Follow us on social media for the latest updates!

Find Your Fellowship

Shuqi Shi and Sesi Mbatha, 2023 Flagship Fellowship Fellows

Find Your Fellowship

Watson Institute Impact Fellowships are designed to empower and accelerate the ventures and careers of highly promising, historically disenfranchised rising entrepreneurs and leaders. These fully funded fellowships are offered in collaboration with prominent corporations and foundations, providing comprehensive support and training to help fellows make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Our Partners:

The BMO Fellowship: An accelerator for sustainability focused entrepreneurs.
Truist Foundation Logo

What You Will Receive

Pitch Development & Professional Recording:

Refine how you communicate your venture’s impact and vision to stakeholders.

Create a professionally recorded pitch video you can use beyond the Fellowship.

Master the art of engaging and persuading key audiences.

Skill Enhancement & Leadership Growth:

Develop essential skills through hands-on workshops focused on strategic planning, venture development, and problem-solving.

Build resilience and adaptability for the entrepreneurial journey.

Learn to effectively lead and scale an impact-driven organization.

Mentorship & Expert Guidance:

Receive one-on-one guidance from experienced mentors and industry professionals.

Participate in group mentorship circles for collaborative learning.

Work directly with an Entrepreneur in Residence who supports your venture’s growth.

Community & Network Expansion:

Join a dynamic community of impact-driven entrepreneurs and changemakers.

Connect with Fellows, Alumni, and experts who share your commitment to social impact.

Build lasting relationships that extend beyond the Fellowship.

Visibility & Collaboration:

Share your work through Watson Institute summits and events.

Connect with mission-aligned leaders, funders, and industry influencers.

Position yourself as a thought leader in social impact.

Real-World Experience Through Basecamp:

Design and lead a Basecamp community event with provided training and resources.

Put your leadership skills into action through hands-on experience.

Receive a stipend to support your community initiative.

Want to learn more? Get the Details.

Sign up and get access to our Newsletter, Fellowship Content, highlights, and benefits!