Scholarships

Commonwealth Startup Fellowship In UK 2026 (Fully Funded)

25th May 20250 Comment0

Are you an early-stage entrepreneur in a Commonwealth country looking to scale your startup, access global networks, and gain immersive business training? The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship—delivered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in partnership with Imperial College London—offers a fully funded six-month programme combining an intensive bootcamp in Accra, Ghana, and high-impact online learning. With financial support covering travel, accommodation, visa fees, vaccinations, and a dedicated Fellow’s Grant Fund, this fellowship equips 20 high-potential ventures from low- and middle-income Commonwealth nations to build thriving businesses, drive job creation, and foster economic development back home.

Why the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship Matters

By blending world-class mentorship, hands-on training, and peer learning, the fellowship accelerates your startup’s growth trajectory. You’ll return home not only with enhanced technical know-how but also a powerful global network to drive sustainable impact.

Apply from 2 June to 30 June 2025 and take the next bold step in your entrepreneurial journey!

Programme Overview

Duration: 6 months
In-Person Bootcamp: 14–30 November 2025, Accra, Ghana
Cohort Size: 20 startups (one representative each)
Capstone Events: Potential follow-up activities in London, UK
Hosts: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission & Imperial College London

Also Check: Ellison Undergraduate Scholars Program In UK 2026 (Fully Funded)

Who Should Apply?

Entrepreneurs who:

Are citizens or refugees permanently resident in an eligible low- or middle-income Commonwealth country

Have an early-stage startup with a minimum viable product, early customer traction, and at least six months of active development

Demonstrate innovation in product, service, or market approach

Can commit to a two-week bootcamp in Ghana and six months of programme activities

Are fluent in English

Eligible countries include Bangladesh, Botswana, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, and more.

Fellowship Benefits

Travel & Visa Support: Return flights to Accra, visa fee reimbursement, and vaccination costs covered

Bootcamp Expenses: Accommodation, local travel, and catering for the two-week in-person session

Grant Fund: Dedicated budget for business or participation-related costs

Disability Support: Additional financial assistance available upon assessment

Global Network: Connection with peers, mentors, and leading experts from Imperial College London

Also Check: Trinity College Dublin Scholarships In Ireland 2025 (Funded)

Application Essentials

Prospective fellows must complete an online form (opening 2 June 2025) detailing:

Academic & Professional Background: Qualifications and relevant employment history

Business Profile: Company registration, role, traction metrics, competitor research, and IP status

Entrepreneurial Vision: Problem statement, innovative solution (150 words each), team capabilities, and motivation for joining (150 words)

Elevator Pitch: 1-minute video summarizing your venture’s impact and goals

Referees: Names and contact details of three referees, including your current/most recent employer

Applications for Cohort Two open on 2 June 2025 and close on 30 June 2025 (BST). An information session will be held on 3 June 2025 at 11:00 BST—register here.