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Commonwealth Scholarships and Imperial College London Enterprise Lab are pleased to announce the call for applications of the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship (CSF) which is your chance to turn your dream into reality! Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this is more than a program, it's a life-changing opportunity to join a global family of innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers.

The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship (CSF) is a prestigious program designed to empower young entrepreneurs and innovators across the Commonwealth. It provides selected fellows with the skills, knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to develop and grow impactful startups that address real-world challenges. This six-month programme is designed to fuel high-potential startups through intensive in-person and online learning. You’ll gain essential skills, tailored coaching, and access to a powerful global network to help you overcome barriers and scale up your business. The programme begins in November 2025 with a fully funded two-week bootcamp in Accra, Ghana, plus ongoing online support with business coaching, expert-led sessions, and valuable peer connections. 📚 Register now for Coding and English Language classes at MK SCHOLARS. June intake is starting on 10th

FELLOWSHIP BENEFITS
The applicants have the following benefits:

• Fully funded two week Bootcamp in Accra, Ghana during Nov 15–29, 2025: includes travel, accommodation, meals, visas, and vaccination costs for one founder
• Five months of remote programming (Nov 30, 2025 – May 15, 2026): monthly 1 2 1 business coaching, peer meetings, expert sessions, and venture reviews
• Access to the Capstone Event in London (May 2026) with investor pitching and networking opportunities
• Equity free grant funding: startups can apply for up to £35,000 from the Fellows Fund, with individual grants up to £2,000 for prototyping, marketing, events, or other critical business needs
• Expert coaching and mentorship: tailored sessions on leadership, scaling, fundraising, branding, and resilience, both in-person and remotely • Global peer network: connect with founders across the Commonwealth, fostering collaboration, shared learning, and ongoing support

📚 Register now for Coding and English Language classes at MK SCHOLARS. June intake is starting on 10th

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To qualify, you must:

1. Hold at least a graduate level qualification (or equivalent)
2. Be a citizen or refugee of a low or middle income Commonwealth country, with permanent residence there.
3. Be fluent in written and spoken English
4. Not have undertaken a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship in the past 5 years
5. Be available to attend the entire programme, including the in person bootcamp (Nov 15–29, 2025)

And your startup must:
• Be a registered business with at least six months of active development
• Have a working MVP, prototype, product, or service
• Demonstrate traction: e.g., early/pre sales, signed contracts, active users, LOIs, or other evidence of demand

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Applicants need to check and submit those required documents:

• Application Form: A complete form you fill out with your personal information, education, and your business idea.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Document showing your education, skills, work experience, and achievements.
• Letter of Motivation or Personal statement: A letter where you explain why you want to join the fellowship, what your goals are, and how the program will help you.
• Letters of Recommendation (1 or 2): Letters from teachers, mentors, or past employers who know you and can say good things about your character and abilities.
• A copy of your passport or national ID to show you are from a Commonwealth country.
• Academic Transcripts: Certified Copies of your school, college, or university certificates to prove your education.

NOTE: Please make sure that your passport is in date and has a minimum of 6 months left to expiry from the 7 April 2025.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
1. Visit the application link at the bottom to start your application.
2. Read all eligibility guidelines and requirements
3. Submit your application through the online application system

📚 Register now for Coding and English Language classes at MK SCHOLARS. June intake is starting on 10th

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Fellowship is divided into three key stages:

Stage 1: Fully Funded In-Person Bootcamp in Accra, Ghana
The program kicks off with an intensive, hands-on bootcamp in Accra. Participants will strengthen their business plans, craft effective growth strategies, and connect with a vibrant community of fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Stage 2: Five Months of Tailored Online Learning and Coaching
Over the next five months, fellows will continue learning through online modules designed to fit their individual needs. Each participant will receive one-on-one mentorship and take part in monthly venture review panels, where experienced professionals will offer personalized feedback and guidance.

Stage 3: Fully Funded Capstone Week in London
The program concludes with an exciting capstone experience in London. Fellows will engage with global investors and participate in high-level networking events to showcase their ventures on an international stage.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications for Cohort Two are now open and will close on 30 June 2025 at 04:00pm (BST).