Organisation Name:
Aspen Institute
Application Deadline:
31 December 2025
About Organisation
Founded in 1949, the Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization that brings together leaders, thinkers, and changemakers committed to building a better world. Rooted in the values of open dialogue, diverse perspectives, and purpose-driven leadership, the Institute serves as a forum for reflection and action on critical global challenges. Its mission is to promote values-based leadership and solutions that advance both human well-being and planetary health. Through programs, seminars, and fellowships, the Aspen Institute aligns business and social priorities, encouraging leaders to pursue inclusive growth and long-term sustainability. Believing that business can be a force for good, the Institute focuses on equipping professionals with the knowledge and mindset to balance profitability with social impact, strengthening the link between ethical leadership and collective progress.
About the Grant
The Aspen Institute Fellowships are designed to empower corporate leaders to drive innovation and positive change within their organizations and beyond. The programs cultivate values-based leadership, helping professionals reflect deeply, connect across sectors, and pursue meaningful initiatives that merge business success with societal progress. Two key fellowships under this initiative include:
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The First Movers Fellowship, which supports corporate innovators in developing new products, services, and management practices that simultaneously enhance business value and contribute to global betterment.
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The Economic Mobility Fellowship, which equips business leaders in the U.S. to scale initiatives that expand economic opportunity for low-income communities while strengthening their companies’ long-term impact and growth.
Both fellowships combine peer learning, leadership coaching, and practical project implementation, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to fostering changemakers who lead with integrity and purpose.
Who can Apply?
Eligible candidates for the First Movers Fellowship are professionals working in core business functions (such as finance, marketing, operations, or product development) of large corporations—not solely in CSR or sustainability departments. Applicants must demonstrate a proven capacity for innovation, a commitment to advancing business value alongside social and environmental progress, and openness to collaboration and lifelong learning. Corporate sponsorship of a $30,000 Fellowship fee is required, covering programming, meals, and accommodations.
For the Economic Mobility Fellowship, candidates should have 10+ years of experience and hold senior roles in large, for-profit organizations. They should be actively leading or scaling projects that enhance economic opportunity and social mobility while contributing to company performance. The program, supported by the Ballmer Group, requires a corporate contribution of $17,500, which covers seminars, lodging, meals, and ongoing engagement activities. Both fellowships emphasize cross-industry diversity and seek leaders who bring fresh perspectives, humility, and purpose-driven ambition.
How to Apply?
Applications are submitted through nominations. Organizations can nominate potential fellows for either the First Movers Fellowship or the Economic Mobility Fellowship via the Aspen Institute’s official channels. Nominated candidates will undergo a selection process evaluating leadership potential, project alignment, and organizational commitment to supporting their fellowship journey.
Application Deadline
The final date to submit nominations and supporting materials for the Aspen Institute Fellowships is 31 December 2025, marking the close of the 2026 fellowship intake period.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
