Call for
Western Union Global Fellowship Program
About Organisation
Watson Institute is a renowned leadership accelerator dedicated to equipping the next generation of changemakers with the skills, resources, and support they need to lead impactful careers. Founded in 2013, the Institute focuses on nurturing local leaders who are tackling critical social, economic, and environmental issues within their communities. By collaborating with globally recognized corporations and foundations, Watson Institute offers fellows not just financial assistance, but also access to expert mentorship, global networks, and brand support. Their model is designed to amplify the efforts of grassroots leaders and social entrepreneurs who are already making a difference in underserved areas.
Watson Institute’s core mission is to enable people to live lives of purpose and meaning by fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, leadership development, and real-world problem-solving skills. In addition to offering immersive fellowship programs like the Western Union Global Fellowship, the Institute runs two other career-oriented initiatives focused on leadership advancement. Through this integrated approach, Watson Institute continues to inspire and equip individuals around the world to drive sustainable and scalable change in their communities. The organization firmly believes in the power of localized leadership and is committed to ensuring that leaders from marginalized backgrounds have the tools needed to make a lasting impact.
About the Grant
The Western Union Global Fellowship, powered by Watson Institute and fully funded by Western Union, is an impact-driven fellowship designed for individuals from marginalized, refugee, or forcibly displaced communities. This global fellowship empowers emerging leaders and entrepreneurs who are actively working to address systemic issues in their communities by providing them with the tools, mentorship, and network required to scale their ventures.
Running from August 25 to December 16, 2025, the program includes a two-week virtual immersive experience, leadership development workshops, a virtual summit, and a real-world community event known as a “Basecamp.” Fellows also receive professional support in pitch development, skill enhancement, one-on-one mentoring, and expert guidance from entrepreneurs-in-residence and industry leaders.
In addition to technical training and leadership growth, participants join a diverse global network of social entrepreneurs, alumni, and change-makers. They gain visibility through Watson’s events, summits, and promotional opportunities, helping them connect with potential funders and collaborators. A special focus is placed on providing relevant tools for social ventures operating within historically underserved and vulnerable communities. Fellows also receive a stipend to design and lead a local community initiative. This grant is fully funded, ensuring equitable access for all selected participants, regardless of their financial background.
Who can Apply?
The Western Union Global Fellowship is designed for purpose-driven entrepreneurs who have personally experienced the hardships of being part of marginalized, refugee, or forcibly displaced communities. Eligible applicants should be actively working to create meaningful change for these populations through a nonprofit or for-profit venture that already has an established business model and is delivering services or products to historically underserved communities.
The program specifically seeks individuals with a clear vision for scaling their impact and who would benefit from strategic mentorship, network access, and leadership development. It is ideally suited for entrepreneurs who are at a stage where they are ready to grow their initiatives and need support to expand their reach and effectiveness.
Applicants should be based in or creating impact within one of the eligible countries: India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uganda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, Mexico, Pakistan, and the Philippines. The program values diversity, resilience, and community-rooted leadership and encourages applications from individuals committed to social justice and inclusive development.
The fellowship is virtual, allowing broad accessibility, and is structured to support leaders without requiring them to pause their ongoing initiatives. A strong commitment to social impact and a readiness to engage with a global community are key.
How to Apply?
Interested candidates can complete the online application in approximately 30 minutes. Early applicants who apply before July 1, 2025, will receive priority consideration. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a 20-minute virtual interview to discuss their entrepreneurial journey and venture vision. Final selections will be announced by July 25, 2025. Selected applicants must confirm enrollment to participate in the program, which begins on August 25, 2025.
Application Deadline
Priority application deadline is July 1, 2025. However, applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until all fellowship positions are filled.
Last Date To Apply
While the priority deadline is July 1, 2025, the final cut-off depends on seat availability. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all slots are confirmed.
Grant Amount
The Fellowship is fully funded, covering all program-related costs, training sessions, mentorship, and a stipend to support the Fellow’s community-based project or Basecamp initiative. No fee is required to apply.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
