The Western Union Global Fellowship has opened opportunities for entrepreneurs and community leaders working to support refugees, highly marginalized groups, and displaced communities around the world.
Supported by Western Union and powered by Watson Institute, this fully funded 16-week fellowship programme provides selected participants with leadership training, mentorship, financial literacy support, financial stipends, community impact resources, and access to a global network of entrepreneurs and changemakers.
The fellowship is designed for individuals who are creating meaningful social impact through entrepreneurship, community programmes, and initiatives focused on expanding economic opportunities for underserved populations.
About the Western Union Global Fellowship
The Western Union Global Fellowship supports entrepreneurs who are addressing challenges faced by refugee, displaced, and highly marginalized communities.
The programme helps participants strengthen their ventures through:
- Entrepreneurship and leadership training
- Expert mentorship
- Financial tools and resources
- Community development support
- Pitch preparation and presentation opportunities
- Global networking opportunities
Through the fellowship, participants gain access to Watson Institute’s flagship fellowship curriculum and join a diverse international community of entrepreneurs working on social impact solutions.
Fully Funded Fellowship Benefits
Successful fellows receive a range of benefits designed to help them grow their leadership abilities and expand their impact.
The fellowship provides:
Entrepreneurship and Leadership Workshops
Participants take part in specialised workshops focused on developing entrepreneurial skills, leadership abilities, and strategies for creating sustainable impact.
Financial Tools and Resources
Fellows receive access to financial tools, frameworks, and workshops designed to strengthen their organisations and improve financial management skills.
Community Development Stipend
Selected participants can design and lead a one-day entrepreneurship training programme known as a Basecamp for early-stage entrepreneurs in their communities.
The programme provides training, resources, and a community development stipend to help fellows support emerging entrepreneurs serving marginalized and displaced populations.
Pitch Training and Global Summit
Fellows receive pitch coaching to help them communicate their ventures effectively. Participants will present their ideas and impact stories during a virtual summit attended by entrepreneurs, community leaders, Western Union representatives, investors, and peers.
Fellowship Duration and Schedule
The Western Union Global Fellowship runs for 16 weeks.
The 2026 programme schedule includes:
- Programme Period: 11 August – 3 December 2026
- Virtual Immersive Experience: 11 August – 18 August 2026
- Virtual Summit: 3 December 2026
Participants are expected to dedicate approximately 8–10 hours per week to workshops, mentorship sessions, community activities, Basecamp planning, and summit preparation.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is designed for entrepreneurs and community leaders who are actively supporting vulnerable communities.
Applicants should:
- Be entrepreneurs or community leaders working with refugee, displaced, or highly marginalized communities
- Have a strong commitment to solving challenges affecting underserved populations
- Demonstrate community-centred impact and leadership experience
The programme particularly values individuals with direct experience connected to the communities they serve.
Business Requirements
Applicants should have an existing organisation, business, or social enterprise.
Eligible ventures should:
- Have operated for 1–5 years
- Have fewer than 10 employees
- Have engaged customers, beneficiaries, or measurable results
- Have received some form of funding through grants, investments, donations, or revenue
Both for-profit and nonprofit organisations are welcome to apply.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for the fellowship.
Priority Locations
The fellowship encourages applications from individuals creating impact in selected locations, including:
- United States
- Costa Rica
- India
- Philippines
- Lithuania
- Argentina
- Italy
- Brazil
- Peru
Application Process
The application process involves several stages:
1. Submit an Application
Candidates complete an online application highlighting their entrepreneurial journey, impact, and goals. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
2. Application Review
The admissions committee evaluates applicants based on their innovation, venture potential, and ability to create meaningful community impact.
3. Interview
Shortlisted candidates participate in a 20-minute Zoom interview to discuss their venture, leadership journey, and fellowship goals.
4. Final Selection
Successful candidates confirm participation before the programme begins on 11 August 2026.
Why Apply for the Western Union Global Fellowship?
The fellowship offers entrepreneurs and community leaders an opportunity to:
- Gain international exposure
- Develop leadership and business skills
- Receive mentorship from experienced professionals
- Strengthen their organisations
- Connect with a global network of changemakers
- Expand their community impact
Over the past five years, the Western Union Global Fellowship has supported more than 10,500 changemakers worldwide.
Final Thoughts
The Western Union Global Fellowship provides a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs creating solutions for vulnerable communities. With fully funded participation, mentorship, financial support, and global networking, the programme helps leaders strengthen their ventures and create lasting social impact.
Entrepreneurs and community leaders who are passionate about improving economic opportunities for refugees, displaced individuals, and underserved communities should consider applying for this global fellowship opportunity.
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