The Green RISE West Africa Fellowship is a fully funded leadership program for entrepreneurs building a green economy in West Africa. Delivered by Acumen Canada in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, it equips women and youth with tools to create inclusive green jobs and climate solutions.
Acumen Academy identifies and prepares leaders with the hard skills to build scalable solutions to poverty and the moral leadership to re-imagine a better world. The program is open to entrepreneurs in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.
Green RISE West Africa Fellowship Benefits
- Fully funded participation (lodging, food, transport for immersives)
- Leadership curriculum focused on moral imagination, adaptive leadership, storytelling, and inclusive impact strategies
- Access to Acumen’s Foundry, a global alumni network of 2,000+ social entrepreneurs
- Post-fellowship opportunities for project funding and entry into the Green RISE Accelerator
- Impact-focused learning on creating dignified green-sector jobs for women and youth
- Community of values-aligned climate-focused social entrepreneurs
- Chance to enroll in the Green RISE Africa Accelerator program
- Opportunities to receive funding for projects through Angels Green RISE Africa
Green RISE West Africa Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Lead an enterprise providing green-focused goods or services
- Have at least 5 full-time employees and demonstrable traction in the last 12 months
- Possess a minimum of 5 years professional experience
- Be based and operating in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, or The Gambia
- Be over 18 years old
- Demonstrate commitment to solving poverty and climate challenges
- Have reliable internet access and be available for all sessions
- Not have previously participated in an Acumen Fellowship program
How to Apply for Green RISE West Africa Fellowship?
- Read the Applicant Toolkit to prepare your application
- Submit the online application by May 11, 2026
- Participate in the Selection Conference (June 4–6, 2026)
- Start your Fellowship journey in July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Green RISE West Africa Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What are the minimum requirements for applying for the program?
You must lead a green-focused enterprise with at least 5 full-time employees, have demonstrable traction over the last 12 months, a minimum of 5 years professional experience, be based in West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia), be over 18, have reliable internet, and not have participated in an Acumen Fellowship before.
What are the academic qualifications for the program?
There are no specific academic prerequisites. The program focuses on leadership and enterprise-building skills rather than formal academic credentials.
Is English proficiency a requirement?
Yes. All sessions and training are conducted in English. To fully participate and benefit from the experience, proficiency in English is required.
Does the Fellowship provide funding or additional benefits?
The Fellowship is fully funded for participants, covering all program-related expenses including lodging, food, and transportation for immersives. However, it does not provide direct funding or stipends. Post-fellowship, there are opportunities for project funding through Angels Green RISE Africa.
How many Fellows are selected each year?
On average, approximately 20 Fellows are selected per year per region. The selection is competitive and based on commitment to solving poverty and climate challenges, leadership potential, and values alignment.
Can I apply if I have participated in another Acumen Fellows program?
No. Each cohort must consist of individuals who have not previously taken part in an Acumen Fellows program. However, candidates who have participated in other fellowships or taken Acumen Academy courses are welcome to apply.
What is the attendance policy?
The program has a 100% attendance requirement. All selected Fellows must attend all program sessions, cohort calls, and 1:1s, and complete assignments. Exceptions are made for emergencies on a case-by-case basis.
Where will the in-person immersives be held?
In-person immersives will be held in Nigeria and Kenya. The exact locations are communicated to selected Fellows. Fellows are expected to stay at the residential location for the entire duration of the immersive.
What post-Fellowship support is available?
After completing the program, Fellows join the Foundry, Acumen’s global alumni community, and a climate-focused Community of Practice. They gain access to networking, mentorship, coaching, pro-bono services, and potential project funding through Angels Green RISE Africa.
Can two people from the same organization apply?
Yes, multiple people from the same organization may apply, but only one can be selected per year. Within a 3-year period, only one person from the same organization can be accepted as a Fellow, unless the organization is large and roles are significantly different.
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