About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Western Union Global Fellowship is a Fellowship designed for entrepreneurs impacting refugees, highly marginalized, and displaced individuals globally.
Suported by Western Union and powered by Watson Institute, this fully-funded 16-week program provides training, committed mentorship, financial literacy skills, financial stipends, long-term Alumni support, a playbook and funds to power a 1-day Basecamp in their community, and a global network of support to help exceptional entrepreneurs and leaders access economic opportunity, advance their impact, and transform their communities.
Aim and Benefits of Western Union Global Fellowship Fellowship
Entrepreneurship & Leadership Workshops
Financial Tools & Resources
Basecamps: Creating Lasting Impact
Pitch Training & Virtual Summit
Requirements for Western Union Global Fellowship Fellowship Qualification
Who you are:
You are an entrepreneur or community leader who has experienced the challenges of highly marginalized, refugee, or forcibly displaced communities, or who is actively working to support these populations. You are deeply committed to addressing issues affecting historically underserved communities and driving meaningful, community-centered impact. We particularly value proximate leaders—those who come from these communities or work closely with them, bringing lived experience and close connection to the challenges at hand.
Your Business Stage:
Your business or organization has been operating for 1-5 years with fewer than 10 employees. You have engaged customers, measurable results, and have secured some funding through grants, investments, donations, or revenue, and you’re ready to grow to the next level. (All legal business structures welcome: for-profit, nonprofit, social enterprise, etc.).
Your Commitment:
You must be able to commit to the full 16-week program, including the mandatory virtual Immersive and weekly workshops held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00–10:00 AM MT. We prioritize participants who are fully committed to active engagement throughout the entire program. The program’s success depends on building a strong community where all participants are enthusiastic about both learning and sharing their experiences with others.
Where You Work:
Applicants who are located in and/or creating impact in the following countries are encouraged to apply:
What You Are Looking For:
You seek expert-guided entrepreneurial training through Watson Institute’s signature Flagship Fellowship curriculum, specialized mentorship from Entrepreneurs in Residence with lived experience supporting communities on the move, a supportive global community for feedback, a broad mentor network to enhance your leadership, and opportunities to challenge yourself by leading a Basecamp training program and other initiatives that benefit your venture and community. You bring an entrepreneurial spirit and growth mindset to this work.
How to apply