About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Interledger Fellowship Program is designed for individuals committed to advancing digital financial inclusion through research, advocacy, education, policy innovation, open-source technology, and community engagement.
The fellowship supports projects that address challenges such as:
High transaction costs
Limited access to digital payment systems
Financial literacy gaps
Exclusionary regulations
Poor digital infrastructure
Lack of interoperability between financial platforms
The program encourages applicants to create practical and scalable solutions that improve access to financial systems for marginalized and underserved populations around the world.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive substantial support throughout the program duration. The fellowship is structured to ensure participants can focus fully on their projects and research.
Financial Support
Fellows will receive:
A total stipend of USD 72,000
An additional USD 20,000 project budget
Access to mentorship and technical support
Networking opportunities with global experts
Participation in an international community of innovators
The total grant value reaches up to USD 92,000 for the fellowship cycle.
Fellowship Duration
The Interledger Fellowship Program runs for 12 months, beginning in September 2026. Participants are expected to dedicate significant time to their projects, with approximately 32 hours per week recommended for fellowship activities.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship welcomes applicants from diverse professional backgrounds and regions around the world. Individuals with experience in technology, digital finance, policy, education, and social innovation are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligible applicants may include:
Researchers
Software developers
Open-source contributors
Entrepreneurs
Educators
Policy regulators
Fintech professionals
Digital rights advocates
Financial inclusion experts
Artists and creators
Community organizers
The program is especially interested in applicants whose work contributes to systemic change and expands financial access for underserved populations.
Focus Areas
Projects submitted under the fellowship should align with one or more of the following themes:
Open Payments and Interoperability
Applicants may propose projects that improve communication and transactions between financial systems through open payment standards.
Digital Financial Inclusion
The fellowship supports initiatives that make financial services accessible to populations excluded from traditional banking systems.
Policy and Standards Development
Participants can work on regulatory frameworks and technical standards that encourage equitable financial participation.
Education and Capacity Building
Projects focused on financial literacy, digital education, and training programs for underserved communities are highly encouraged.
Technology for Underserved Markets
Applicants may develop products, services, or infrastructure tailored for communities lacking reliable access to digital finance tools.
Eligible Activities
The fellowship will fund projects involving:
Research and policy analysis
Educational content creation
Open-source software development
Community engagement initiatives
Advocacy campaigns
Technical infrastructure development
Financial accessibility projects
Ecosystem-building activities
Projects should demonstrate measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit their applications through the official online platform. Required application materials include:
Completed grant application form
Detailed project proposal
Budget and project timeline
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Recommendation letters
Applications will go through a two-phase review process:
Proposal and documentation review
Interview stage for shortlisted applicants
Only selected candidates from phase one will be invited for interviews.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Have relevant professional experience
Possess a bank account in their legal name
Meet due diligence requirements
Comply with applicable U.S. regulations
Demonstrate commitment to advancing digital financial access
Although a university degree is not mandatory, applicants must provide evidence of expertise and experience related to their proposed project.
English Language Requirement
The entire fellowship process is conducted in English, including applications, interviews, and program activities. Applicants should therefore have sufficient English communication skills to participate effectively in the fellowship.
Why You Should Apply
The Interledger Fellowship Program stands out as one of the leading global opportunities for professionals passionate about financial innovation and inclusion. Beyond the impressive funding package, fellows gain exposure to a global network of experts and organizations working on transformative financial technologies.
The program offers an opportunity to:
Build impactful global projects
Gain international recognition
Collaborate with leading innovators
Access mentorship and strategic support
Contribute to digital financial equity worldwide
Whether you are a researcher, developer, educator, or advocate, this fellowship can significantly advance your professional journey while allowing you to create meaningful social impact.
How to apply