Green RISE West Africa Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity for Climate Entrepreneurs

If you’re building a business that solves environmental problems while creating jobs, this is an opportunity you shouldn’t ignore.

The Green RISE West Africa Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious, fully funded program is designed to support entrepreneurs who are working at the intersection of climate innovation, sustainability, and poverty reduction across West Africa.

 What is the Green RISE Fellowship About?

The Green RISE Africa Fellowship (Resilient Impact through Sustainable Entrepreneurship), powered by Acumen Academy in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is a 6-month leadership development program. 

It goes beyond business training. The program focuses on:

- Building strong, values-driven leadership

- Scaling climate-focused businesses

- Creating dignified jobs for women and youth

- Driving long-term impact in underserved communities 

Fellows also join a global network of over 2,000 social entrepreneurs after completing the program.

 Who is This Fellowship For?

This fellowship is specifically for impact-driven entrepreneurs and leaders in West Africa.

You should apply if you:

- Are building or leading a green or climate-focused business

- Are creating jobs for women and youth, especially in rural areas

- Have at least 5 years of professional experience

- Have a business with proven traction and impact

Are based in:

•Nigeria

•Ghana

•Liberia

•Sierra Leone

•The Gambia 

It’s especially ideal for entrepreneurs working in:

°Sustainable fashion

°Clean energy

°Agriculture

°Recycling / circular economy

°Climate-tech solutions

 What You’ll Gain

If selected, you’ll receive:

°Fully funded training (travel, accommodation, learning included)

°Leadership and business development support

°Access to mentors and a powerful network

°Opportunities for funding and accelerator programs

°A lifelong community of impact leaders 

 Program Structure

The fellowship is designed to fit around your work while still pushing your growth. It includes:

•Virtual training sessions

•In-person immersions (Nigeria & Kenya)

•Monthly peer learning sessions

•One-on-one support and mentorship

•Self-paced assignments

Participants typically commit about 10 hours per month. 

📅 Application Deadline

🛑 Deadline: May 11, 2026 

Shortlisted candidates will proceed to a selection conference in June, and the program begins in July 2026. 

Why You Should Apply

This is more than a fellowship—it’s a transformational experience.

If you’re serious about:

-Scaling your impact

-Building a purpose-driven brand

-Creating jobs through your business

-Becoming a recognized leader in sustainability

-Then this opportunity aligns perfectly with your journey.

✨ Final Thoughts

Opportunities like this don’t just grow your business—they grow you.

If you’re already building something meaningful (especially in sustainability or fashion like your brand), this could position you as:

A thought leader

A fundable founder

A voice in Africa’s green economy

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

https://fellowship.acumenacademy.org/green-rise-west-africa-fellowship-2026