Call For Applications: Watson Institute Flagship Fellowship 2025 For Entrepreneurs
Are you an impact-driven entrepreneur? We have the opportunity for you!
The Flagship Fellowship Program brings together 30 entrepreneurs in the critical “missing middle” stage—ventures that have demonstrated initial traction but need support to scale their impact. While each Fellowship is distinct in its focus area and geographic scope, all impact-driven entrepreneurs participate in the same transformative program experience, creating a cohesive community addressing crucial challenges in their target communities.
Watson Institute is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Flagship Fellowship. This 16-week fully-funded Fellowship is designed for impact-driven entrepreneurs looking to achieve product-market fit and scale their ventures, by providing the following:
- Global Network – Access to a global network of entrepreneurs and industry leadeR
- Skill-Building Training – Gain award-winning education and training designed to strengthen critical business and leadership skills to scale ventures
- Expert Mentorship – Guidance from seasoned professionals, venture capitalists, and executives
- In-Person Immersive in Boulder, CO – Kickstart the Fellowship with a transformative in-person experience in August 2025.
- Virtual Programming – The remaining 15 weeks of the Fellowship is virtual and offers:
- Award-winning training
- Committed, hands-on mentorship
- A powerful community of peers supporting next-generation entrepreneurs
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Applications for the Flagship Fellowship are open and the priority deadline to apply is June 22, 2025. Once that deadline passes, we will accept applications on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.
Country Eligibility:
Applications are welcomed from across the globe, with a preference towards applicants from the following countries: United States, China, Brazil and East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), South Sudan).
Benefits
Through this fully-funded Fellowship, supported by Partners and powered by Watson Institute, you’ll gain the tools, mentorship, and network needed to scale your venture’s impact. The Fellowship is specifically optimized for impact ventures, with carefully selected facilitators, mentors, and speakers who bring deep expertise.
Pitch Development & Professional Recording
Refine how you communicate your venture’s impact and vision to stakeholders.
Create a professionally recorded pitch video you can use beyond the Fellowship.
Master the art of engaging and persuading key audiences.
Skill Enhancement & Leadership Growth
Develop essential skills through hands-on workshops focused on strategic planning, venture development, and problem-solving.
Build resilience and adaptability for the entrepreneurial journey.
Learn to effectively lead and scale an impact-driven organization.
Mentorship & Expert Guidance
Receive one-on-one guidance from experienced mentors and industry professionals.
Participate in group mentorship circles for collaborative learning.
Work directly with an Entrepreneur in Residence who supports your venture’s growth.
Community & Network Expansion
Join a dynamic community of impact-driven entrepreneurs and changemakers.
Connect with Fellows, Alumni, and experts who share your commitment to social impact.
Build lasting relationships that extend beyond the Fellowship.
Visibility & Collaboration
Share your work through Watson Institute summits and events.
Connect with mission-aligned leaders, funders, and industry influencers.
Position yourself as a thought leader in social impact.
Real-World Experience Through Basecamp
Design and lead a Basecamp community event with provided training and resources.
Put your leadership skills into action through hands-on experience.
Receive a stipend to support your community initiative.
Application Process
1. Submit Your Application: Candidates complete the online application in approximately 30 minutes. Submit by the priority deadline of June 22, 2025, for early consideration. Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.
2. Application Review: Our Admissions Committee evaluates applications to identify innovative entrepreneurs with scalable ventures and strong potential for impact. Early applicants receive priority consideration.
3. Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute Zoom interview to share their entrepreneurial journey, discuss their venture’s vision for growth, and explore how the Fellowship aligns with their goals.
4. Final Selection & Enrollment: Final decisions will be announced by August, 2025. Accepted applicants must confirm their enrollment to secure their spot. The program begins on August 18, 2025.
Deadline: June 22, 2025
