How to Apply
Make a plan. Take action.
Thank you for your interest in the Initiators Fellowship!
Are you a good fit? Review the eligibility requirements. Register for an upcoming question-and-answer session.
The 2026-2027 Initiators Fellowship application will open on May 1 and close at noon on June 16.
We’re committed to providing support to those who may face barriers in applying for the Fellowship. Please reach out to initiators@ifound.org, and we will connect with you.
To help you with the online-only application, we’ve created a PDF preview application that you can download and use to prepare your answers. Please note that this document is for your offline use only and will not qualify as a submitted application if emailed to us. Only by completing and submitting the online application, which will be published on this page, will an applicant be considered for this program.
The application process includes a video of three minutes or less. In your video, you will express how the Fellowship would be transformative for you, your social enterprise venture and your community. A simple, no-frills video recorded on Zoom is required. Follow these instructions for guidance.
We look forward to seeing some inspiring social enterprise ideas!
Learn more about the Initiators Fellowship with Christine Metzo, program manager.
HOW-TO RESOURCES
- Thoroughly review this website so you clearly understand the program.
- Review the eligibility requirements to ensure you are, in fact, eligible to apply.
- Read our social enterprise explanation.
- Make sure you understand and can meet the expectations by reviewing our program requirements. More information on requirements can be found here.
- Have questions about whether your idea aligns with the Initiators Fellowship program? Feel free to reach out to Christine Metzo, program manager, to talk it through.
The application will close at noon on June 16.
STEP 1: Access the online application. You will be able to save your progress and return to it.
STEP 2: Record a personal video of three minutes or less expressing how the Fellowship would be transformative for you, your social enterprise venture and your community. A simple, no-frills video recorded on Zoom is required. Follow these instructions for guidance.
STEP 3: Complete the online application and attach your video.
Remember that you can email Initiators Fellowship staff with specific questions about completing any of the application materials.
To be fair to all applicants through the remainder of the process, we cannot review your materials and provide feedback in advance of the screening process.
Application Materials
Prepare a personal video no longer than three minutes and complete the following application. When your application materials are complete, submit!
