The Fully Funded Asia Foundation Development Fellowship is open to all nationals. It aims to empower emerging leaders from diverse regions across Asia. It offers a year-long immersive experience to hone your leadership abilities, gain valuable practical insights, and actively contribute to social and economic development. The selection process is highly competitive, with a focus on identifying individuals who have the potential to make a meaningful difference. If you think you have what it takes to be a leader, you must apply before the deadline. 

The Asia Fellow Program 2025 will revolve around Climate Action. Hence, enabling participants to emerge as leaders for Climate Action by the end of the program. As an Asian Development fellow, you will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with fellow emerging leaders, receive mentorship from experts in various fields and engage in hands-on experience to tackle Climate issues with innovative solutions. Becoming a part of this prestigious international fellowship program offers a life-changing journey that can significantly influence both your professional and personal growth. By acquiring valuable skills, practical experience and meaningful connections, you will make a tangible and lasting impact within your community and on a broader scale, positively shape the world around you. The 2025 Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program includes different modules, courses and study tours in USA and Asia. 

Moreover, the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program is an innovative and comprehensive educational initiative for exceptionally skilled Asian individuals under 40. This program will elevate their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of Asian development, expand their professional networks, and provide them with exposure on the international stage. Drawing on the Foundation’s nearly seven-decade commitment to nurturing the region’s most promising leaders, this dynamic and multifaceted learning experience aims to empower and equip participants to become influential agents of positive change in their respective fields and beyond.

Apart from gaining invaluable experience, you will receive a generous stipend and have access to support and resources to help you achieve your aspirations. This fully funded leadership program offers an exceptional chance to develop your skills. If you are eager to make a genuine difference and contribute to your community’s growth, then the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program is the perfect  fellowship for you. Take the first step towards a brighter future by applying today. But before proceeding to the online application, check the details below to ensure your eligibility for this fellowship in the USA and Asia.

The benefits of the Fully Funded Asia Foundation Development Fellowship are:

• Asia Development Fellows Program is a fully funded fellowship, requiring no cost from the participants.
• Fellows will embark on a year-long leadership development journey that takes place in Asia and the United States.
• They will receive a 5000 USD stipend, a professional development award, to cover their travel expenses, accommodations, and other program-related costs.
• In addition, the program includes a range of workshops, seminars, and field visits to prominent institutions in Asia and the United States.
• Asia Foundation Fellows will receive various mentorship and coaching sessions.
• Furthermore, the fellows will have the chance to connect with other emerging leaders from the region and engage with field experts, fostering valuable professional networks.
• This fully funded fellows program provides emerging leaders from Asia with an exceptional chance to enhance their leadership skills and gain fresh perspectives on regional and global challenges.
• Through various learning experiences and interactions, fellows will undergo personal growth, enhancing their self-awareness and adaptability. 

The eligibility criteria for the Fully Funded Asia Foundation Development Fellowship are stated below:

• Applicants must be residents or citizens of eligible countries/regions.
• Applicants must be below the age of 40 by 1 January 2025. 
• Moreover, all applicants should have a demonstrated track record of leadership in their professional fields and within the broader community relevant to climate action. Any professional background is acceptable if the candidate can show how their work relates to climate action.
• Furthermore, they must possess strong English language skills in both writing and speaking (TOEFL results are optional). 
• All those applying for the Development Fellows Program must be available and committed to participating in all program components as scheduled.
• They must also be able to get US visa.
• Additionally, applicants should possess exceptional personal character and integrity.

Documents Required for Asia Development Fellows Program:

• Passport
• CV/Resume 
• Personal information (nationality/citizenship, contact details)
• Recommendation Letters  (2)
• Short video submission (2-3 minute long)
• A written submission that showcases your experience and achievements

For more guidelines, click here 

2025 Fellowship Program Components:

a) Spring 2025: Leadership Training Program and Study Tour (Nepal, 17-28 February 2025)

• Highly interactive leadership training modules with executive coaches.
• Site visits with leading development practitioners, policy leaders and local innovators.
• Includes short assignments and sessions on building self-awareness and wellness for leaders.

b) Fall 2025: Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program (United States 6-17 October 2025)

• Continues the work from the spring session, strengthening cohort bonds and building new international perspectives.
• Focus on extending networks of support, especially in the climate action space.
• Fellows participate in comprehensive programs, policy discussions and leadership development opportunities.
• Held in the San Francisco Bay Area and Washington, DC.