Deadline: 1st December, 2025
As part of our long-standing commitment to making opportunity universal, the Big Bets Fellowship equips visionary leaders with the mindset, skills, and networks needed to realize their ambitions and drive change in their communities at scale.
Each year, we select a diverse and interdisciplinary cohort of changemakers who are driving bold, systemic solutions to the world’s most urgent challenges – improving lives and expanding opportunity for those historically underserved.
In 2026 the Big Bets Fellowship will engage leaders from across the African continent who are creating the systems, policies, and innovations that can power a prosperous and sustainable future for all.
Benefits
Travel expenses for participation in the in-person convening will be covered by The Rockefeller Foundation. Fellows will be responsible for securing the necessary visa(s) for any travel during the course of the program.
Eligibility
While there is no single profile of a Big Bets Fellow, the following characteristics describe individuals who are likely to thrive in the program:
- 5–15 years of experience driving impact through professional, entrepreneurial, or community-based work.
- Deep engagement in their region, reflected through lived experience, professional contributions, or community involvement.
- A distinctive perspective and fresh insight into a pressing challenge, informed by both personal and professional experience.
- A proven track record of meaningful change, demonstrating the ability to lead initiatives and bringing together diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
- Collaborative, curious, and community-driven, with a strong commitment to learning and contributing to the Fellowship network.
- Courageous and bold, willing to challenge the status quo and advance new approaches for lasting impact.
- Applicants must be members of the Big Bets Community to be eligible for the Fellowship.
For more information