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Applications are now open for the Acumen Academy Green RISE Africa Fellowship 2026, a leadership programme designed to support African climate entrepreneurs building sustainable, impact-driven solutions across the continent.
The fellowship targets founders and leaders addressing climate challenges while creating jobs and improving livelihoods, particularly within underserved communities.
About the Fellowship
The Green RISE Africa Fellowship is part of Acumen Academy’s broader mission to develop leaders committed to tackling poverty and advancing sustainable development.
With a specific focus on the green economy, the programme supports entrepreneurs working across sectors such as renewable energy, climate resilience, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Acumen Academy is globally recognised for equipping social entrepreneurs with both technical expertise and values-based leadership, enabling them to build scalable and impactful enterprises.
The fellowship is delivered through regional cohorts, including East Africa and West Africa, ensuring context-specific learning and collaboration.
Fellowship Tracks
Applicants are required to apply based on their region:
• Green RISE East Africa Fellowship
• Green RISE West Africa Fellowship
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows will receive:
• A fully funded leadership development experience
• Training in social entrepreneurship and climate innovation
• Access to a network of African and global changemakers
• Mentorship and peer learning opportunities
• Tools and frameworks to scale sustainable enterprises
The programme places equal emphasis on leadership development and business impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
• Be social entrepreneurs or leaders addressing climate or sustainability challenges
• Have a minimum of five years of work experience
• Be actively working on solutions that tackle poverty or environmental issues
• Demonstrate strong leadership potential and commitment to impact
Eligibility may vary slightly depending on the regional cohort.
Programme Structure
The fellowship is delivered through a cohort-based model and includes:
• Immersive seminars and workshops
• Leadership and values-based training
• Peer-to-peer learning and collaboration
• Practical application of climate and business solutions
Participants also benefit from long-term collaboration within the Acumen global network.
Application Process
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
1. Choose your region (East or West Africa)
2. Visit the application portal using the relevant link
3. Review eligibility criteria and programme expectations
4. Prepare your application materials, including details of your work and impact
5. Complete the application form accurately
6. Submit your application after reviewing all entries
7. Participate in the selection process if shortlisted
Application Deadline
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as deadlines may vary by region and the selection process is highly competitive.
Why This Matters
Climate innovation remains critical to Africa’s long-term development. Initiatives such as the Green RISE Africa Fellowship play an important role in building the capacity of entrepreneurs working at the intersection of climate action and economic inclusion.
By providing access to training, mentorship, and networks, the fellowship supports the development of scalable solutions that address environmental challenges while creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
For entrepreneurs operating in climate, agriculture, energy, and sustainability, the programme offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen both leadership capacity and business impact.
For more opportinities, see here
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