africa climate leadership fellowship 2026 funding training for green entrepreneurs
details
The Green RISE Africa Fellowship 2026 is a six month hybrid program supported by Acumen Academy and the Mastercard Foundation It is designed specifically for youth and women led enterprises working in climate related sectors across West Africa The program focuses on strengthening leadership capacity and supporting business growth for entrepreneurs driving environmental and social change
This fellowship is not an academic degree program but a practical leadership development experience that combines virtual learning sessions with in person engagement activities Participants remain active in their businesses while developing new skills and strategies for impact
requirements
Applicants must be entrepreneurs based in Nigeria Ghana Liberia Sierra Leone or The Gambia and must be operating a climate aligned business such as renewable energy sustainable agriculture green jobs environmental solutions or social enterprises focused on climate resilience
Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership potential a clear commitment to social impact and a focus on creating employment opportunities for youth and women particularly in rural communities Participation in leadership development activities throughout the six month program is required
benefits
Selected fellows will receive intensive leadership training including adaptive leadership storytelling and impact strategy development The program offers hybrid learning combining online sessions with immersive in person experiencesFellows gain access to a global network of social entrepreneurs mentorship from experienced industry leaders and opportunities to connect with funding and accelerator programs The fellowship also provides practical tools to help scale businesses and increase long term sustainability