The Big Bets Fellowship: Africa, an initiative of The Rockefeller Foundation, represents a strategic investment in the future of Africa by strengthening the leadership capacity of visionary changemakers across the continent. As part of the Foundation’s long-standing mission to expand opportunity globally, the fellowship equips emerging and mid-career leaders with the mindset, tools, and networks required to drive large-scale, systemic impact in their communities. In 2026, the fellowship will focus exclusively on Africa, recognizing the continent’s demographic dynamism, creativity, and untapped potential. Home to the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, Africa stands at a pivotal moment. With the right leadership and systems in place, its economies, institutions, and innovations can shape a more equitable and sustainable future. The fellowship is designed to accelerate this progress by supporting individuals who are crafting bold strategies that address structural challenges and expand opportunity for underserved populations. Why Africa is at a defining moment Africa’s vitality and ingenuity continue to influence conversations on global development, economic resilience, climate adaptation, and technological innovation. Yet, the continent’s long-term success hinges on leaders who are capable of bringing together diverse stakeholders, navigating complex systems, and designing solutions that benefit entire communities. The Big Bets Fellowship: Africa aims to amplify these leaders. By placing emphasis on entrepreneurship, community engagement, and systems-level thinking, the program supports impactful ideas that reimagine existing structures and promote inclusive growth. Leaders selected for the fellowship are encouraged to develop approaches that not only solve challenges but do so in a way that sparks broader transformation across regions. Program overview and engagement timeline The fellowship blends virtual learning, collaborative exchange, and immersive in-person engagement. Selected fellows will participate in weekly virtual sessions from May to August 2026, followed by an in-person convening at The Rockefeller Foundation’s Bellagio Center in Italy during the week of August 23, 2026. This convening serves as a culminating experience, providing a platform for fellows to refine their ideas, deepen relationships, and link with global partners. An amplification moment in fall 2026 will further spotlight their work. Travel expenses for the in-person convening are covered by the Foundation, though fellows are responsible for securing the necessary visas. The program is designed not only to enhance leadership capacity but also to anchor fellows within a global ecosystem committed to advancing systemic change. Fellow selection criteria The fellowship seeks individuals with 5–15 years of professional, entrepreneurial, or community-driven experience who have consistently demonstrated meaningful impact. Ideal candidates have deep engagement in their region, whether through lived experience, policy work, development programs, or grassroots leadership. Successful applicants bring a fresh perspective to a pressing African challenge and exhibit collaborative energy, curiosity, and a commitment to learning. They must also demonstrate the courage to rethink existing approaches and champion new pathways for long-term progress. Membership in the Big Bets Community is required before applying. Project selection criteria A “Big Bet” is defined as a focused, ambitious effort to solve a structural problem—not merely improve an existing system. Projects proposed by applicants should reflect the ability to influence change at scale. The fellowship prioritizes initiatives that advance one or more of the following themes: Strengthening multilateral cooperation led by African institutions and regional bodies. Expanding decentralized renewable energy access to reduce energy poverty and drive green industrialization. Enhancing public health systems to improve outbreak readiness and climate-linked heat resilience. Transforming food systems to boost food security and support smallholder farmers. Improving regional markets and trade systems to promote inclusive economic development. Creating enabling environments through artificial intelligence, policy innovation, or improved data access to power African-led solutions. Application process and timeline Applications open on November 10, 2025. Applicants must complete the Eligibility and Pre-Application Forms by December 1, 2025. Finalists will be invited in early January 2026 to submit a full application and participate in interviews. The 2026 cohort will be announced in late February 2026. By joining the Big Bets Fellowship: Africa, leaders gain access to a global network of peers, experts, and institutions committed to elevating African-led solutions. The fellowship stands as a testament to the belief that the Global South is not only a site of challenges but also a source of pioneering solutions with the power to transform the world. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. 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