The Western Union Global Fellowship Program 2025 is a fully funded, 16-week virtual experience designed to empower community leaders and social entrepreneurs who support marginalized, refugee, or displaced communities. The fully funded fellowship provides the tools, guidance, and network needed to grow impactful ventures while remaining accessible to participants globally. Backed by the Western Union Foundation and powered by Watson Institute, the program fosters leaders ready to create long-lasting systemic change.
The fellowship for social entrepreneurs is open to individuals from all over the world, with priority given to those located in or impacting communities in countries such as Argentina, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Uganda, the United States, and others. The program includes virtual workshops, mentorship, and a “Basecamp” initiative—a local workshop where fellows teach others in their community. It’s ideal for changemakers already running early-stage projects and ready to grow their impact.
Participants benefit from leadership training, pitch development, community-building, and global exposure. They attend live workshops, receive one-on-one mentorship, and learn how to scale their work. The fellowship also provides funding to conduct the local Basecamp, helping others while practicing leadership and event organization.
What makes this program special is its commitment to real-world impact and inclusivity. You don’t need a university degree or a registered organization to apply—what matters most is your dedication, experience, and desire to support underserved communities. It’s a golden opportunity for aspiring social innovators to build skills and confidence while making a difference.
Quick Overview of Western Union Global Fellowship Program 2025
- Host Country: None (Virtual Program)
- Host Organizations: Western Union Foundation & Watson Institute
- Deadline: July 1, 2025 (Priority Deadline)
- Program Dates: August 25, 2025 – December 16, 2025
- Value: Fully funded (includes training, mentorship, and project stipend)
- Age Limit: No fixed limit (typically 18–35, flexible)
- Eligibility: Global; leaders of ventures serving marginalized, refugee, or displaced communities, especially from select priority countries
Perks of the Fully Funded Fellowships for Social Entrepreneurs 2025
- Live virtual expert-led workshops twice a week
- One-on-one mentorship with experienced social entrepreneurs
- Project stipend to run a local community workshop (Basecamp)
- Personalized pitch development and professional video recording
- Access to a global network of peers, alumni, and partners
- Certificate upon completion with alumni benefits and micro-grants
- Visibility and opportunities to showcase your work globally
Benefits of the Watson Institute Fellowships 2025
- Gain real-world knowledge in leadership, venture planning, and impact strategy.
- Enhance your credibility, skills, and connections to global networks and funding sources.
- Build confidence, learn time management, and grow as a changemaker through practical experience.
Exclusions of the Leadership Development Fellowship 2025
- No direct cash grant for personal use
- No travel, visa, or relocation support (entirely virtual)
- Not an academic degree or university credit program
- No guaranteed funding or job after the program
- Requires full-time commitment; not suitable for passive participants
- The program is conducted only in English
Eligibility Criteria for the Global Virtual Fellowship 2025
- You must lead or actively work in a venture/project serving marginalized, refugee, or displaced communities
- 1–3 years of work experience in your venture (formal registration not required)
- Commitment to attend all sessions and complete the Basecamp project
- Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking)
- Passionate about creating social impact and learning
Important Dates of Western Union Global Fellowship Program 2025
- July 1, 2025: Priority Application Deadline
- July 2 – July 20, 2025: Application Review and Interviews
- July 25, 2025: Final Selection Results Announced
- August 25, 2025: Fellowship Program Begins
- September – November 2025: Workshops & Basecamp Planning
- November 2025: Basecamp Execution
- December 16, 2025: Fellowship Ends
How to Apply to the Western Union Global Fellowship Program 2025
- Visit the Application Page
- Fill out the application form with personal, project, and impact details
- Prepare to share your story and motivation clearly and passionately
- If shortlisted, attend a 20-minute Zoom interview
- Receive your final selection email by July 25, 2025
Required Documents for the Leadership Fellowship for Marginalized Communities 2025
- Updated CV or Resume
- Written responses about your project and background
- (Optional) Recommendation letter or reference contact
- (Optional) Links to project videos, photos, or media features
Country-Specific Criteria for the Global Leadership Fellowship 2025
Applicants from the following countries will be prioritized:
- Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, USA
- Africa: Nigeria, Uganda
- Asia: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Philippines, Japan
- Europe: UK, Germany, Lithuania. However, all nationalities are welcome to apply if they meet the core criteria.
