The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship will run for six months and is designed to ignite and elevate high-potential startups from low- and middle-income countries within the Commonwealth. The programme combines immersive in-person experiences with online learning to provide participants with essential skills, cutting-edge knowledge, and a robust global network.
Application Deadline:
- Deadline: September 1, 2026
- Programme start: 16 November 2026
Tell Me About The Fellowship.
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship, administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in partnership with Imperial College London, is a six‑month programme designed to ignite and elevate high‑potential startups from low‑ and middle‑income Commonwealth countries. Fellows receive immersive in‑person experiences, online learning, and access to a global network to help scale their businesses, pitch fluently, and drive job creation.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Startups must demonstrate:
- Innovation – product, service, business model, or approach.
- Commercial Traction – paying customers, repeat purchases, contract renewals, or sustained usage.
- Sustainability – not primarily dependent on donations or grants.
- Positive Impact – economic, social, or environmental outcomes.
Type:
- Entrepreneurship Fellowship | Startup Development | Commonwealth Countries
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be at least graduate level.
- Be citizens or refugees permanently resident in eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Be fluent in English.
- Not have undertaken a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship in the last five years.
- Be available for the full programme (Nov 2026 – May 2027).
- Have a legally registered startup operating for at least 12 months, with evidence of customer demand and growth potential.
How are Fellows Selected?
- Based on eligibility, innovation, traction, and potential to scale.
- Applicants must submit:
- Business and team details.
- Two referees.
- A one‑minute video pitch.
- Passport or national ID scan.
- Due diligence checks will be conducted by CSC.
Which Countries are Eligible?
- Low‑ and middle‑income Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, Tanzania, and many others.
Where will the fellowship be taken?
- Hybrid format:
- Online learning.
- In‑person bootcamp in Accra, Ghana (Jan–Feb 2027).
- Capstone Week in London, UK (May 2027).
How Many Fellows?
- Cohort size not specified; one representative per startup.
What is the benefit of the fellowship?
- Approved return travel to Accra and London.
- Accommodation, travel, and catering covered.
- Visa fee reimbursement.
- Up to £2,000 equity‑free grant for business or participation costs.
- Disability support available.
- Access to global networks and mentorship.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
- Six months (Nov 2026 – May 2027).
How to Apply:
- Complete the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship online application form.
- Submit required documents and video pitch.
- Applications open 3 August 2026.
🌐 Visit the application webpage for details
