In 2026, funding for leadership has changed from general “management” to policy innovation and transformative change. There are a number of fully funded fellowships available for the 2026/2027 cycle, whether you are an activist just starting out or an executive in the middle of your career.
1. The Best Fully Funded Leadership Fellowships
Leaders Programme for the Obama Foundation (2026–2027)
This programme is for people between the ages of 24 and 45 who are improving their communities.
- The award: all expenses paid, including travel, lodging, and a customised leadership program.
- The application period for the current cycle ended in December 2025. The program will start in September 2026, and selection decisions will be made in June 2026.
- Getting ready for 2027: Applications for the 2027/2028 cohort should open in October or November of 2026.
YALI 2027: The Mandela Washington Fellowship
The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) has a primary program for leaders between the ages of 25 and 35.
- The Prize: A fully paid six-week academic residency at a U.S. university and a high-level summit in Washington, D.C.
- Status as of 2026/2027: The process of choosing the 2026 cohort is almost over.
- Cycle for 2027: Applications for the Summer 2027 Program usually open in August or September 2026.
Chatham House Academy Fellowships in the UK
This fellowship is for new leaders in policy and international affairs who work at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London.
- The award includes a monthly payment of about £2,300, moving costs, and a 10-month stay.
- The deadline for applications for the October 2026 intake is April 17, 2026.
- Target: The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Fellowship for African citizens is one of the top tracks for 2026.
2. Awards for leadership in specific fields and areas
Eisenhower Global Fellowships for 2027
For professionals aged 32 to 45 who are already established, this programme offers a 6-week intensive leadership journey in the U.S.
- The Prize: All travel and programme costs are covered.
- The Spring 2027 Global Program will accept applications from April 13 to May 15, 2026.
- Focus: new ideas, making a difference in society, and talking to people from other countries.
Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship in the UK
A partnership for people in the Arts and Culture field who are in the middle of their careers.
- The award covers housing, living costs, and two round-trip flights to the UK for a customised leadership program.
- The programme usually runs from September to May during the 2026/2027 cycle.
- Countries that can apply include Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, and South Africa.
3. Scholarships for Academic Leaders (Based at a University)
Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Leadership Tracks)
You can get it at partner universities like Cambridge, Edinburgh, and UCT.
- The Award: It’s more than just free tuition; it also includes “Leadership Retreats”, mentoring, and a “Transition to Work” allowance.
- 2026 Status: A lot of deadlines in the UK were in January and February 2026, but African partner schools (like Makerere) have until June 5, 2026 to finish.
University of Glasgow’s Global Leadership Scholarship
- The prize is a full discount on the tuition for a one-year Master’s degree.
- Deadline: Applications for the September 2026 intake close in the summer of 2026.
- You must show that you are academically excellent (equivalent to a UK 1st Class) and have an offer for 2026/27.
4. Leaders’ 2026 Application Strategy
- The “Network” Evidence: Leadership committees want to see your “Sphere of Influence” in 2026. You should include numbers in your application that show how you made a difference, such as “Led a team of 50” or “Influenced policy affecting 10,000 people”.
- NIN and Professional Verification: For applicants from West Africa, the 2026 portals for Chatham House and YALI use automated NIN and background checks. Make sure your digital IDs are up to date.
- The AI Leadership Pitch: A successful application for 2026/2027 often includes your plan for Ethical AI Leadership or how you plan to use new technology for the good of your community.
