Role Type: Professional Fellowship (International)
Target Audience: International Entrepreneurs (For-Profit with Social Impact)
Age Range: Typically 32-45 years old
Duration: ~6 Weeks (Oct-Nov 2026)
Deadline: February 14, 2026
Application Status: Open Now
Overview of the Opportunity
Eisenhower Fellowships (EF) is calling for ascendant, innovative International Entrepreneurs to join its 2026 Innovative Entrepreneurs Program. This prestigious fellowship is designed for leaders who are successfully running for-profit enterprises that generate positive social impact.
This is a fully funded, nearly six-week journey in the United States. You will not just be visiting; you will be collaborating directly with American counterparts, fostering professional relationships, and launching dynamic projects that cross national borders. Upon completion, you join a lifelong network of over 2,500 Fellows from 118 countries.
The Fellowship Experience: A Shared Journey
This program is unique because it integrates International Fellows with USA Fellows, creating a powerful cross-cultural cohort.
1. The Austin Gathering
Your journey begins in Austin, Texas, a major hub for entrepreneurship.
- Joint Residency: You will spend several days in residence with the USA Fellows cohort.
- Collaboration: Participate in workshops, shared meetings, and one-on-one exchanges to build deep professional bonds.
2. U.S. Travel & Exploration
After Austin, the journey expands across the country.
- Traveling Together: You will travel to one or two additional major U.S. cities alongside your American counterparts.
- Customized Itinerary: The program allows you to meet with innovators in your field, gaining diverse perspectives on similar challenges you face at home.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Should Apply?
EF is looking for "doers" mid-career leaders with the maturity to leverage this opportunity for massive impact.
1. Professional Profile
- Entrepreneur: Must demonstrate success in leading a for-profit enterprise.
- Impact: Your business must generate positive social impact (e.g., green tech, ethical supply chains, health access).
- Leadership: Proven track record of leadership and potential for future influence.
2. Demographics
- Age: Typically between 32 and 45 years at the time of fellowship.
- Language: Must be highly proficient in English.
- Geography: Applications are accepted globally, but preference is given to candidates in countries where EF is active.
3. Commitment
- Project: You must develop a concrete project proposal to advance during the fellowship.
- Lifelong Engagement: A commitment to staying active in the EF global network to advance the mission of peace and prosperity.
Why Apply?
- Global Access: Gain direct access to a network of global change agents that you can call upon for the rest of your career.
- Perspective: Challenge your own assumptions by seeing how American entrepreneurs solve similar problems.
- Scale: Use this experience to catapult your leadership and enterprise to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this for non-profit leaders?
A: No. This specific track is for for-profit entrepreneurs who also generate social impact.
Q: Is the fellowship funded?
A: Yes. Eisenhower Fellowships generally covers all major travel, accommodation, and program expenses for the duration of the fellowship.
Q: Can I apply if my country is not on the "Active" list?
A: Applications are accepted across the globe, but priority goes to active EF countries. Strong candidates from other regions may still be considered if they demonstrate exceptional impact.
How to Apply
If you are an international entrepreneur ready to expand your horizon, submit your application by February 14, 2026.