Role Type: Professional Fellowship (Mid-Career)
Target Audience: American Entrepreneurs (For-Profit with Social Impact)
Age Range: Typically 32 – 45 years old
Timeline: Fall 2026 (Domestic) & Q1 2027 (International)
Deadline: February 14, 2026
Application Status: Open Now
Overview of the Opportunity
Eisenhower Fellowships (EF) exists to inspire leaders to challenge themselves and effect positive change. For the 2026 cycle, EF is seeking ascendant, innovative American entrepreneurs who are successfully leading for-profit enterprises that generate positive social impact.
This is not an academic scholarship; it is a high-level leadership program for established professionals. Selected Fellows will join a prestigious network of over 2,500 Fellows from 118 countries, engaging in a transformative "bifurcated" (two-part) journey that spans the U.S. and the globe.
The Fellowship Structure: A Global Journey
The 2026 USA Program offers a unique hybrid experience, combining domestic networking with international exploration.
Phase 1: The Domestic Gathering (October & November 2026)
USA Fellows will begin their journey alongside their international counterparts.
- Austin, Texas: Join the international cohort for several days of residence, workshops, and shared meetings.
- US Tour: Accompany International Fellows to one or two major U.S. cities for 10 days to 2 weeks of domestic travel. This is designed to foster deep professional relationships and cross-border collaboration.
Phase 2: International Travel (Late 2026 – Q1 2027)
Following the joint U.S. travel, USA Fellows will embark on their own individualized journey.
- The Trip: Spend two to three weeks in one country overseas.
- Goal: Launch dynamic, concrete collaborations with global counterparts and expand your perspective on how to drive social impact through business.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Should Apply?
EF is looking for "doers"—leaders who have the maturity to take advantage of this unique opportunity. The selection is competitive and specific.
1. Professional Profile
- Entrepreneur: You must have demonstrated success in leading a for-profit enterprise.
- Social Impact: Your business must generate positive social impact (e.g., sustainability, education, health access, etc.).
- Leadership: Proven track record of leadership and potential for future impact.
2. Age & Citizenship
- Age: Candidates are typically between 32 and 45 years of age at the time of the fellowship.
- Nationality: This specific track is for USA Fellows (American citizens/residents).
3. Commitment
- Project: Fellows must develop a project proposal that this experience will advance.
- Engagement: A commitment to lifelong engagement with the EF network to build a world more peaceful, prosperous, and just.
Why Become an Eisenhower Fellow?
- Global Network: Access a powerful network of like-minded leaders across national borders.
- Personal Growth: A rare opportunity to step back from daily operations to envision how you can effect broader change.
- Collaboration: Move beyond your existing network to collaborate with global peers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this for non-profit leaders?
A: No. This specific program targets entrepreneurs leading for-profit enterprises that have a social mission.
Q: Is the travel fully funded?
A: Yes. Eisenhower Fellowships typically covers all travel, accommodation, and program expenses for the scheduled fellowship activities.
Q: Can I choose the country I visit?
A: Fellows work with EF to determine the most impactful destination for their specific project and professional goals.
How to Apply
If you are an American entrepreneur ready to take your impact global, submit your application by Valentine's Day 2026.