About This Opportunity

The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship — Ghana Chapter is a fully free, structured fellowship designed to identify, train, and launch the next generation of Ghanaian entrepreneurs. It is a partnership between Queen's University (Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre), the Mastercard Foundation, and local programme leads on the ground in Ghana.

The 2027 cohort is now open for applications. This is one of the few entrepreneurship programmes in Ghana that combines world-class university curriculum, real coaching, and a global alumni network — at zero cost to participants. If you are sitting on a business idea or running an early-stage venture, this is the programme to apply for.

> 📌 Applications close December 1, 2026. No late applications will be considered under any circumstances.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Ghanaian nationals (resident in Ghana or in the diaspora)
  • Current university undergraduates or recent graduates from universities, vocational institutions, or training colleges in Ghana
  • Have a business idea, early-stage venture, or strong interest in entrepreneurship
  • Able to commit to the full programme schedule for the 2027 cohort
  • No prior business experience required — drive and commitment matter more

What You Get / Benefits

  • Entrepreneurial skills training — structured curriculum developed with Queen's University's Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre
  • Dedicated 1-on-1 and group coaching from experienced entrepreneurship mentors
  • Access to entrepreneurial resources — tools, frameworks, funding guidance, and pitch support
  • Ghanaian and global network — join a community of fellows and alumni across Ghana and internationally
  • Venture launch support — practical help to start or grow your business during and after the fellowship
  • 100% free — no tuition, no participation fee, no hidden costs

How to Apply

  • Click the application link: Apply for the 2027 Cohort
  • Complete the full Qualtrics application form — answer all sections honestly and thoroughly
  • Submit before December 1, 2026 — the system will not accept late submissions
  • Wait for feedback from the Ghana Chapter team on next steps

    • > The application is hosted on Queen's University's secure Qualtrics platform. You do not need to create an account to apply.

    Tips

    • Do not wait until November — the December 1 deadline is hard and the programme team have confirmed no extensions. Apply now while details are fresh.
    • Be honest about your idea stage — you do not need a fully built business. Fellows have been accepted at the idea stage. What selectors look for is clarity of vision, market awareness, and genuine commitment to building something.
    • Mention your community impact angle — the Mastercard Foundation's core mandate is African youth economic inclusion. Applications that show how your venture will create opportunities for others in Ghana tend to stand out.

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    Follow the Ghana Chapter for updates:

    ⏰ Deadline: December 1, 2026. Apply now → queensu.qualtrics.com