BMO Fellowship 2026 in Online | Fully Funded

The BMO Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded leadership program for entrepreneurs and community leaders working to expand economic opportunity. This hybrid fellowship, powered by the Watson Institute and funded by the Bank of Montreal, offers training, mentorship, and resources to help fellows scale their ventures and create sustainable impact. It is a unique opportunity for young leaders with a vision to pursue a 16-week virtual immersive program from August to December 2026.

The Bank of Montreal is the 8th largest bank in North America, and its fellowship is specifically designed for individuals improving access to financial services, supporting small businesses, and expanding home ownership. The Watson Institute, which powers the fellowship, provides various programs for entrepreneurs and leaders, offering a strong alumni network and long-term support. This fellowship is ideal for impact-driven entrepreneurs in their early growth stages.

BMO Fellowship Benefits

• The Bank of Montreal fellowship is a fully funded program for entrepreneurs and leaders.
• Participants will attend 16 weeks of expert-led business and leadership workshops.
• Fellows will gain access to financial tools, resources, and mentorship from industry experts.
• Opportunity to design and lead a one-day Basecamp training for small business owners in their community.
• Participants will receive support through BMO teams, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
• Fellows will develop and refine their pitch and present at a Virtual Summit.
• Access to a strong alumni network and long-term support.

BMO Fellowship Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be 18 years old or older.
• Applicants should be small business owners or community leaders creating sustainable and scalable impact.
• Applicants must be working in areas such as: expanding access to financial services for underbanked communities, supporting small businesses and strengthening local economies, expanding home ownership opportunities.
• Applicants must have an entrepreneurial mindset and a willingness to grow as a leader.
• Applicants must be based in BMO priority markets such as Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, or Denver.
• Applicants’ business or organization should be operating for 1–5 years with fewer than 10 employees.
• Applicants must have customers, measurable results, and some form of funding (grants, revenue, or investment).
• Applicants must commit to the full 16-week program, including the virtual immersive and weekly workshops.
• Applicants must actively participate in workshops, mentorship sessions, and community activities.

How to Apply for BMO Fellowship

• Click the ‘apply now’ button to go to the application portal.
• All applicants must apply online, and the application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
• Applications submitted before the priority deadline will receive early consideration.
• Selected applicants will be invited to a 20-minute virtual interview.
• Final decisions will be announced after the interview process, and selected fellows must confirm their participation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the BMO Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.