In a world increasingly reliant on innovation and entrepreneurship, startup founders from low- and middle-income Commonwealth nations face multiple barriers to scaling their ventures globally. The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026 in the UK is designed to remove those barriers, offering fully funded support to 20 high-potential early-stage entrepreneurs to accelerate business growth. Hosted by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in partnership with Imperial College London, this six-month immersive programme blends intensive training, mentorship, and international exposure to fuel entrepreneurial success.

Whether you’re a social innovator or tech founder, this opportunity allows you to gain the critical tools, global network, and visibility needed to create long-lasting economic impact in your community.

What Is the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026?

The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded six-month programme aimed at empowering early-stage entrepreneurs from eligible Commonwealth countries. Designed to equip founders with world-class training and global connections, the programme comprises:

• A two-week in-person bootcamp in Accra, Ghana
• Six months of remote learning, mentoring, and networking
• Optional capstone activities in London, UK

The initiative is committed to fostering inclusive innovation by supporting ventures that drive economic development, job creation, and social impact in developing nations.

Fellowship Summary

• Host Organization: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission & Imperial College London
• Location: Accra, Ghana & online (with possible events in London)
• Programme Duration: 6 months
• Cohort Size: 20 entrepreneurs (one per startup)
• Bootcamp Dates: 14–30 November 2025
• Application Period: 2 June – 30 June 2025

Why Apply for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship?

1. Fully Funded Support

All selected fellows receive comprehensive financial assistance, including:

• Round-trip flights to Ghana
• Visa and vaccination costs
• Accommodation, meals, and local travel during the bootcamp
• Grant Fund for business-related expenses
• Support for disabilities, where applicable

2. Intensive Training

The bootcamp in Ghana will be a rigorous experience filled with workshops, pitch sessions, and strategy labs conducted by leading entrepreneurs, academics, and investors.

3. Global Network

Gain access to:

• Imperial College London’s expert mentors
• Peer founders from 20 different Commonwealth countries
• Investors and ecosystem enablers

4. Entrepreneurial Growth

By the end of the six months, you’ll walk away with:

• A scalable business model
• An improved go-to-market strategy
• Enhanced fundraising skills
• Deeper insight into emerging markets and international trade

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a citizen or refugee of an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country
• Have a registered early-stage startup with at least six months of active development
• Present a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with some customer traction
• Showcase an innovative product, service, or approach
• Commit to attending the two-week in-person bootcamp
• Be fluent in English

Eligible Countries Include:

Bangladesh, Botswana, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, and more.

What Kind of Startups Should Apply?

The Fellowship is sector-agnostic, encouraging applications from diverse industries, such as:

• AgriTech
• FinTech
• HealthTech
• EdTech
• Climate Innovation
• Social Enterprises

What matters most is impact, scalability, and commitment to growing a sustainable business within your local ecosystem.

Fellowship Timeline and Key Dates

• Information Session: 3 June 2025 at 11:00 AM BST
• Applications Open: 2 June 2025 at 10:00 AM BST
• Application Deadline: 30 June 2025 at 4:00 PM BST
• Bootcamp in Accra: 14–30 November 2025
• Remote Learning: December 2025 to April 2026

Fellowship Benefits in Detail

Travel & Visa Support

• Return Airfare to and from Ghana
• Visa Reimbursement
• Vaccination Reimbursement

Bootcamp Benefits

• Accommodation and Catering for 2 weeks
• Local Transportation within Ghana

Grant Fund

• Business Development Support through a flexible grant fund
• Support for internet connectivity, digital tools, or workspace rentals

Disability Support

• Tailored support to ensure full participation, including assistive technology and special accommodations

Global Network Access

• Access to Imperial College London mentors
• Long-term connection with Commonwealth alumni networks

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare and upload the following:

• Identification Document (e.g., passport)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Business Details: Company registration, market traction, and team info
• Academic Qualifications
• Two Short Essays:
  • Your startup's mission and problem-solving approach (150 words)
  • Why you want to join the programme (150 words)
• One-Minute Pitch Video
• Referees’ Information (Three required, including employer or supervisor)

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official Commonwealth Startup Fellowship portal. Steps include:

• Register and create an account
• Complete the application form with accurate information
• Upload required documents
• Submit the application before the deadline (30 June 2025, 4:00 PM BST)

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early: Don’t wait until the deadline week.
• Craft compelling essays: Be concise and visionary.
• Focus on traction: Demonstrate growth, customers, or clear demand.
• Polish your pitch: Make the 1-minute video clear, confident, and impactful.
• Get strong referees: Choose recommenders who know your capabilities.

Alumni Impact: What to Expect Post-Fellowship

Past participants in similar Commonwealth programmes have gone on to:

• Raise seed funding or gain accelerator spots
• Partner with NGOs and government agencies
• Expand regionally or globally
• Employ and mentor others in their ecosystem

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the fellowship open to all startup sectors?

Yes. As long as your startup shows promise for impact and growth, the sector is flexible.

Do I need to pay anything?

No. The programme is entirely free, and all major costs are covered.

Do I need an existing business?

Yes. You must have an operational startup with a working MVP and some traction.

Can more than one founder attend?

No. Only one representative per startup can join the programme.

Will I travel to the UK?

While not guaranteed, capstone events may occur in London.

[Visit the Official Commonwealth Fellowship Portal to Apply]