Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026-27 | Fully Funded
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship is a 6-month hybrid program designed to support high-potential early-stage startups from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries. Selected fellows receive fully funded training, mentorship, and equity-free grants.
Overview
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship is a 6-month immersive, hybrid program combining online and in-person learning sessions. Offered jointly by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and Imperial College London, the initiative aims to select 20 early-stage startups to help entrepreneurs build essential skills, advanced knowledge, and a global network. The program features an in-person bootcamp in Accra, Ghana, and a capstone week in London, UK.
Benefits
- Round-trip airfare for attending the in-person bootcamp in Accra, Ghana.
- Accommodation and meals provided during the bootcamp.
- Approved return travel from the fellow's home country to London, UK.
- Reimbursement of visa application fees and vaccination costs.
- Up to £2,000 in equity-free grants for business or participation-related costs.
- Dedicated support from CSC for fellows with disabilities.
Eligibility
- Must be a citizen or hold refugee status in an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country and live there permanently.
- Must be fluent in written and spoken English.
- Must not have received a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship within the last 5 years.
- Must be available to begin the fellowship on the specified start date.
- Must demonstrate innovation in product, service, business model, or market approach.
- Must have been actively running the business for at least 12 months with a product or service currently available to customers and evidence of active demand.
How to Apply
Interested individuals must submit their applications through the online application portal. The application process requires the following details and documentation:
- Information on up to two university degrees (if applicable) and up to two previous job entries.
- Names and positions of two qualified referees.
- Comprehensive business details, your role, startup progress, achievements, current revenue, traction, and research.
- Competitor analysis, intellectual property, and ownership status.
- A 1-minute video covering the problem, solution, progress, advantages, innovation, team skills, motivations, and goals.
- A scanned copy of a valid passport or national identity card.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by the closing date listed below.