Deadline: July 6, 2025 (11:59 PM EST)
The MIT Kuo Sharper Center Foundry Fellowship 2025–2026 is now accepting applications! This prestigious program offers a transformative leadership and ecosystem-building experience for exceptional Africa-based entrepreneurs who have successfully scaled innovation-driven enterprises. Designed for those at a turning point in their leadership journey, the fellowship helps fellows transition into roles that support broader ecosystem development across Africa.
About the MIT Kuo Sharper Center Foundry Fellowship
The MIT Kuo Sharper Center Foundry Fellowship 2025–2026 is an eight-month, immersive program delivered by the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT. It aims to equip leaders who have scaled for-profit businesses in Africa with the tools and networks to build innovation ecosystems that promote inclusive prosperity.
This is not an incubator or accelerator for early-stage startups—this is a program for entrepreneurs ready to evolve into ecosystem enablers: launching venture funds, policy frameworks, or pan-African support institutions.
Who Should Apply?
You are encouraged to apply if you:
- Are a founder or C-level executive of a for-profit, innovation-driven enterprise based in Africa.
- Have successfully scaled your venture and are at an inflection point in your leadership path.
- Are transitioning into ecosystem-building roles—such as supporting other entrepreneurs, influencing policy, or creating structures for sustainable innovation.
- Are fluent in English and available to fully participate in all virtual and in-person components.
Fellowship Components
- Duration: Eight months (October 2025 – May 2026)
- Cohort Size: 10–15 fellows
- Immersive Learning:
- Four ecosystem tours (Africa: Nov 2025 & Jan/Feb 2026; US: Apr/May 2026)
- MIT faculty-led coursework
- Peer learning and reflective leadership seminars
- Location: Virtual + in-person visits in Africa and the U.S. (including Boston/Cambridge)
- Support: Accommodation, group meals, and in-country travel are covered. Fellows cover their own international flights and incidental costs.
Application Process
Applicants will submit:
- Basic information about themselves and their business
- Thoughtful essays addressing leadership, ecosystem-building goals, and motivation for applying
- A 2-minute personal video in English
- Resume (including entrepreneurial, community, and leadership experience)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Finalists will participate in at least one panel interview
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | June 11, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | July 6, 2025 (11:59 PM EST) |
| Finalist Interviews | August 2025 |
| Program Begins | October 2025 |
| Immersion Tours | Nov 2025 – May 2026 |
How to Apply
Click here to apply now for the MIT Kuo Sharper Center Foundry Fellowship 2025–2026.
Want to learn more before applying? Read more about the program here.
Expert Tips from Grant Database
At Grants Database, we recommend the following to help you prepare a strong, standout application:
- Tell Your Transition Story: Use your essays and video to clearly explain how you are moving from business building to ecosystem enabling. Judges want to see depth, clarity, and intention in this transition.
- Show Impact: Quantify your venture’s reach—revenue, jobs created, regions served—and outline how your next phase can benefit others beyond your enterprise.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who can speak in detail about your leadership growth, business success, and vision for the ecosystem.
Need help crafting or reviewing your application materials? Contact grantsdatabase.org for expert support in proposal drafting, refining, and review.
Final Thoughts
The MIT Kuo Sharper Center Foundry Fellowship 2025–2026 is more than a leadership opportunity—it’s a call to action for entrepreneurs who want to amplify their impact across Africa. If you’re ready to shape the future of innovation in your ecosystem, don’t miss this chance.
