Deadline: February 14, 2026
The Eisenhower Fellowships Innovative Entrepreneurs Program 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded international fellowship designed for accomplished entrepreneurs who are building successful for‑profit ventures with measurable social impact. Delivered by Eisenhower Fellowships (EF), the programme offers a unique opportunity for global leaders to engage in intensive professional exchange, leadership development, and long‑term collaboration with peers and experts across the United States.
This fellowship brings together innovative entrepreneurs from around the world for an immersive experience that strengthens leadership capacity, expands international networks, and accelerates impact‑driven business growth.
About the Eisenhower Fellowships Innovative Entrepreneurs Program 2026
The Eisenhower Fellowships Innovative Entrepreneurs Program 2026 is structured as a nearly six‑week, in‑person fellowship in the United States. The programme begins with a joint residency alongside American fellows in Austin, Texas, featuring workshops, leadership sessions, peer exchange, and high‑level networking opportunities.
Following the residency, fellows embark on tailored professional visits across multiple U.S. cities aligned with their individual project goals, sector focus, and leadership objectives.
Programme Focus and Objectives
The programme is designed to:
- Support established entrepreneurs leading for‑profit ventures with clear social impact
- Facilitate cross‑sector and cross‑border collaboration
- Strengthen leadership, innovation, and strategic decision‑making skills
- Build long‑term professional relationships between international and U.S. leaders
- Enable fellows to translate global best practices into local and regional impact
Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an international entrepreneur (non‑U.S. citizen and non‑U.S. resident)
- Lead a for‑profit business that demonstrates measurable social impact
- Typically be between 32 and 45 years old (preferred age range)
- Hold citizenship in, or have lived for at least five years, in the country they represent
- Demonstrate strong leadership experience and professional achievement
- Possess a high level of English language proficiency
- Be able to commit full‑time to the in‑person programme (employer or organisational approval required)
- Be eligible for a J‑1 U.S. exchange visitor visa
Applicants from countries without an active EF network may still be considered if they demonstrate strong regional or global impact and secure appropriate recommendations.
Important Eligibility Notes
- Accompanying spouses or children are not funded under this fellowship
- Applicants must not have participated in an Eisenhower Fellowship within the past two years
- The use of generative AI tools in preparing or submitting the application is strictly prohibited and may result in disqualification
Fellowship Benefits and Funding
The Eisenhower Fellowships Innovative Entrepreneurs Program 2026 is fully funded. Selected fellows receive comprehensive support covering programme‑related expenses during the fellowship period in the United States.
Programme Duration and Location
- Duration: Nearly six weeks
- Programme Period: October – November 2026
- Primary Location: United States
- Opening Residency: Austin, Texas
- Additional Travel: Multiple U.S. cities based on individual fellowship projects
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: 8 December 2025
- Application Deadline: 14 February 2026
- Review and Interviews: March – May 2026
- Final Selection Announcement: Around June 2026
- Programme Delivery: Fall 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete and submit an online application through the official Eisenhower Fellowships application portal.
Why Apply for the Eisenhower Fellowships Innovative Entrepreneurs Program 2026
This fellowship offers a rare opportunity to:
- Engage with influential global and U.S. leaders
- Expand international business and leadership networks
- Gain exposure to innovative practices across industries
- Strengthen the scale and sustainability of impact‑driven ventures
- Join a lifelong global community of Eisenhower Fellows
Need Support With Your Application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your application and ensure clarity, alignment, and competitiveness.
