Application Deadline: May 11, 2026
Are you building a climate-focused business in West Africa? Do you want to scale your impact while creating green jobs for women and youth? If yes, then the Green RISE West Africa Fellowship 2026 offers a powerful opportunity to develop your leadership and expand your enterprise.
This fully immersive fellowship supports entrepreneurs who are actively shaping a more inclusive and sustainable green economy across the region.
What Is the Green RISE West Africa Fellowship?
The Green RISE Africa Fellowship (Resilient Impact through Sustainable Entrepreneurship)is a leadership programme delivered by Acumen Academy in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
Specifically, the West Africa cohort targets entrepreneurs in:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Liberia
- Sierra Leone
- The Gambia
Through this fellowship, participants gain practical tools, leadership skills, and a strong support network. As a result, they can scale climate solutions while also addressing poverty through dignified work.
Why This Fellowship Matters for Green Entrepreneurs
Today, Africa’s green economy is growing rapidly. However, many entrepreneurs still face challenges such as limited funding, weak networks, and a lack of leadership support.
Therefore, the Green RISE Fellowship steps in to:
- Strengthen climate-aligned businesses
- Expand inclusive green jobs
- Build resilient enterprises
- Promote ethical and moral leadership
In addition, the programme focuses on long-term impact. Fellows do not just grow businesses—they help reshape communities and economies.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. You should apply if:
- You run a green enterprise that creates jobs for women and youth
- You believe that dignity, not just wealth, is the solution to poverty
- You are committed to climate action and social impact
- You want to grow both personally and professionally
- You are ready to join a global community of changemakers
Additionally, you must operate within one of the eligible West African countries.
Programme Structure and Learning Experience
The fellowship runs for 6 months and follows a hybrid format. Importantly, you can continue working while participating.
Key Components Include:
- 3-day virtual orientation
- 2-day virtual workshop
- Two 5-day in-person immersives (Nigeria and Kenya)
- Three learning labs
- Monthly peer learning sessions
- One-on-one coaching and support
On average, fellows commit about 10 hours per month.
Core Learning Areas
Throughout the programme, you will explore key topics such as:
- Adaptive Leadership: Navigate uncertainty and drive change
- Polarity Management: Balance competing priorities effectively
- Storytelling: Inspire action and attract partnerships
- Inclusive Impact Strategies: Expand green jobs across value chains
- Moral Leadership: Build ethical, organisational organisations
Therefore, the curriculum goes beyond theory and focuses on real-world application.
Impact: Real Stories from Past Fellows
The impact of the Acumen Fellowship speaks for itself.
For instance, entrepreneurs have:
- Expanded renewable energy access in rural communities
- Increased women’s incomes by up to 400%
- Built climate-resilient value chains
- Reached millions of lives globally
Clearly, the programme creates leaders who drive meaningful and lasting change.
How to Apply for the Green RISE Fellowship 2026
Applying is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Read the Applicant Toolkit
- Submit your online application `
- Participate in the Selection Conference (June 4–6, 2026)
- Begin your fellowship journey (July 2026)
Additionally, you can attend an info session on April 16, 2026, to learn more about the process.
If you are passionate about climate solutions, social impact, and entrepreneurship, then this fellowship is an excellent fit. Not only will you gain skills and tools, but you will also join a powerful network committed to transforming Africa’s green. APPLY
For more information, check here.
