The Rockefeller Foundation’s Big Bets Fellowship Program supports emerging African leaders developing bold, systemic solutions for underserved communities. Fellows receive mentorship, a global network, and a stipend, focusing on areas like renewable energy, public health, food security, and AI-driven solutions. Applications are open for professionals with 5–15 years of experience committed to high-impact regional initiatives.

Rockefeller Foundation Big Bets Fellowship 2026

Overview

The Big Bets Fellowship Program identifies and supports emerging African leaders working on transformative solutions in sectors critical to sustainable development. Fellows engage in an integrative hybrid program, combining strategic guidance, peer collaboration, and access to global networks.

Why It Matters

Empowers Emerging Leaders: Supports professionals and entrepreneurs driving systemic change.
Focuses on Africa’s Key Challenges: Includes renewable energy, food security, public health, and economic inclusion.
Builds Networks and Capacity: Provides mentorship, exposure to best practices, and connections with regional and global stakeholders.

Fellowship Priorities

Selected projects should address one or more of the following:

Expanding decentralized renewable energy access
Advancing public health systems and heat resilience
Transforming food systems for improved security
Enhancing economic inclusion through markets and trade
Leveraging AI, policy innovation, and improved data for African-led solutions

Who Is Eligible?

Emerging African leaders with 5–15 years of professional, entrepreneurial, or community-based experience.
Deep regional engagement and proven impact on local communities.
Ability to commit to the full program (hybrid participation from May to August 2026, including a week-long convening at Bellagio Center).
Must be part of the Big Bets Community.

Program Structure

Hybrid program combining virtual and in-person sessions.
Strategic guidance from experts in relevant fields.
Networking opportunities with a global community of change-makers.
Focus on projects with potential breakthrough impact within 5–7 years.

How to Apply

Eligibility and Pre-Application Form – Submit by December 1, 2025.
Full Application – Selected finalists submit in January 2026, including:
- Reference letter from a senior expert
- Project proposal demonstrating impact potential
- Participation commitment to the full fellowship program
Interviews – Conducted online for shortlisted candidates.
Selection and Notification – Ten fellows will be announced in late February 2026.

Benefits and Support

Stipend: USD 5,000 upon signing the Fellowship Agreement.
Travel Expenses: Covered for the in-person Bellagio convening.
Mentorship and Guidance: Access to expert advisors and peer networks.
Global Exposure: Connection to the Rockefeller Foundation’s network and resources.

Tips for Applicants

Highlight clear regional engagement and impact.
Emphasize project viability, charitability, and measurable outcomes.
Provide evidence of stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
Demonstrate innovative, systemic approaches to pressing African challenges.

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for the Big Bets Fellowship?
Professionals with 5–15 years of experience in Africa, committed to high-impact projects and community engagement.

2. What sectors or themes does the fellowship focus on?
Renewable energy, public health, heat resilience, food security, economic inclusion, AI, policy innovation, and data-driven African solutions.

3. How long is the program?
The hybrid program runs from May to August 2026, including a one-week in-person convening at Bellagio Center.

4. What financial support is provided?
Fellows receive a USD 5,000 stipend and covered travel expenses for the in-person session.

5. How do I apply?
Submit the pre-application form by December 1, 2025. Finalists complete a full application, provide a reference letter, and attend an online interview.

6. How many fellows will be selected?
Ten fellows will be chosen and announced in late February 2026.

7. What type of projects are preferred?
Projects demonstrating systemic impact, feasibility, charitability, and measurable benefits for underserved African communities.

Conclusion

The Rockefeller Foundation Big Bets Fellowship provides emerging African leaders with mentorship, funding, and a collaborative network to scale systemic solutions that address critical challenges across Africa. It is an opportunity to transform ideas into actionable projects with long-term, measurable community impact.