Call for Applications: Western Union Foundation Fellowship Program 2026
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship Program is a venture and leadership accelerator designed for entrepreneurs and community leaders from highly marginalized, refugee, and forcibly displaced communities around the world.
The fellowship is a fully funded virtual global programme aimed at equipping the next generation of changemakers with the knowledge, mentorship, networks, and resources needed to expand economic opportunities and create lasting impact within their communities.
Western Union Foundation Fellowship Summary
- Host: Western Union Foundation | Watson Institute
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Reward: Full Sponsorship | Up to $36,000 Seed Funding
- Deadline: June 28, 2026
About the Fellowship
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship 2026 offers participants a comprehensive roadmap for scaling their ventures and increasing community impact.
The Western Union Foundation is an independent charitable organization supported by The Western Union Company, its employees, customers, agents, and partners. For over 20 years, the Foundation has invested in initiatives that improve lives and expand economic opportunities globally.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Who You Are
- You are an entrepreneur or community leader from — or working with — highly marginalized, refugee, or forcibly displaced communities.
What You Do
- You lead an early-stage social impact venture or community initiative with demonstrated impact, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
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Your venture should have:
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- A working prototype or MVP
- Active customers or beneficiaries
- Demonstrated impact and revenue
- Potential for growth and scalability
Priority Countries
Applicants from or working in the following countries will receive priority consideration:
- Argentina
- Bangladesh
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Japan
- Lithuania
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Uganda
- United Kingdom
- United States
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What You Are Looking For
- Entrepreneurial training
- Funding opportunities
- Mentorship and networking support
- Leadership development
Expected Impact
Fellows will work with the Watson Institute team to develop strategies for scaling their ventures and community impact. Participants will also organize a local “Basecamp” workshop for stakeholders in their communities.
Fellowship Benefits and Duration
The programme is fully funded through the support of the Western Union Foundation.
Program Features
- Weekly virtual workshops and networking events
- 2-week immersive virtual orientation programme
- Expert-led entrepreneurial training modules
- Mentorship from global entrepreneurs and leaders
- Community impact workshops (Basecamp)
- Final summit and venture pitch event
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Training Modules Include
- Foundations
- Data & Metrics
- Go-To-Market Strategy
- Funding
- Team Management
- Pitch Development
Seed Funding
- Up to $36,000 in seed funding will be distributed among selected fellows based on impact and progress throughout the programme.
Application Timeline
Step 1: Submit Application
Applicants must complete the online application form before June 28, 2026.
Step 2: Application Review
Applications will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee on a rolling basis, with priority given to early applicants.
Step 3: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will participate in a 20-minute Zoom interview discussing:
- Their entrepreneurial journey
- Venture vision and impact
- Fellowship goals
Step 4: Final Selection
- Final decisions announced: July 9, 2026
- Programme begins: August 11, 2026
