Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), in partnership with Imperial College London, is inviting applications for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026/2027. This six-month programme is designed to help high-potential entrepreneurs from eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries accelerate the growth of their startups through expert mentoring, practical training, international networking, and business development support.
The fellowship combines immersive in-person experiences with online learning to equip founders with the skills and connections needed to scale innovative businesses, attract investment, and create jobs in their home countries.
About the Fellowship
The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship is designed to support ambitious entrepreneurs who are building startups capable of generating meaningful economic and social impact. Through a combination of entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and global networking opportunities, participants will strengthen their leadership and business growth capabilities.
The programme is delivered jointly by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and Imperial College London, one of the world’s leading universities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Programme Details
- Programme: Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026/2027
- Duration: Six months
- Organisers: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and Imperial College London
- Format: Online learning combined with in-person activities
- Bootcamp Location: Accra, Ghana
- Final Capstone Events: In-person at the conclusion of the programme
Fellowship Highlights
Participants will benefit from:
- Intensive entrepreneurship and business growth training.
- Practical online learning delivered by leading experts.
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
- Access to an international network of founders, investors, and innovation leaders.
- Business scaling strategies.
- Investor pitching preparation.
- Leadership and innovation development.
- Opportunities to strengthen job creation and business growth in their home countries.
In-Person Participation
Selected fellows must commit to attending:
- A two-week residential bootcamp in Accra, Ghana.
- A one-week capstone programme at the end of the fellowship.
One representative from each selected startup must participate in both in-person components.
Programme Outcomes
By the end of the fellowship, participants are expected to:
- Scale their businesses more effectively.
- Develop stronger business and leadership skills.
- Improve investor readiness and pitching abilities.
- Expand international professional networks.
- Increase the potential for sustainable job creation within their home countries.
Information Sessions
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of the official online applicant information sessions to learn more about the fellowship and application process.
Scheduled sessions include:
- 6 August 2026
- 7 August 2026
- 25 August 2026
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is intended for founders of high-potential startups based in eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries who are seeking to grow innovative businesses with the potential for significant social and economic impact.
Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility criteria before submitting an application.
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs should:
- Review the programme guidance and eligibility requirements.
- Register for an applicant information session if desired.
- Complete the official Commonwealth Startup Fellowship application before the published deadline.
- Ensure that a representative from the startup is available to attend both required in-person programme components if selected.
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