CALL FOR GLOBAL CHANGE-MAKERS: Apply for The Rockefeller Foundation Big Bets Fellowship 2026 Leadership Programme
The Rockefeller Foundation is calling on visionary leaders, innovators, and changemakers to take part in the Big Bets Fellowship, a leadership development programme designed to support individuals working on solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges.
The five-month fellowship brings together a diverse and interdisciplinary group of leaders who are committed to creating meaningful change, accelerating opportunities for vulnerable communities, and building a more sustainable future for people and the planet.
The programme is designed for individuals who are at an important stage in their leadership journey and are preparing to take their next bold step toward creating large-scale impact.
About The Rockefeller Foundation Big Bets Fellowship
The Big Bets Fellowship is a global leadership programme that supports emerging and established changemakers who are developing innovative approaches to address critical challenges facing communities worldwide.
The fellowship focuses on helping leaders strengthen their ability to create lasting impact by providing:
- Leadership development opportunities
- Peer learning and collaboration
- Mentorship and expert guidance
- Access to a global network of changemakers
- Platforms to share ideas and solutions
The programme goes beyond traditional leadership training by focusing on personal growth, relationship building, and the ability to influence systems and communities.
Through the fellowship, participants are supported in transforming ambitious ideas into impactful initiatives that can contribute to sustainable development.
Who Can Apply for the Big Bets Fellowship?
The programme is designed for leaders who are already making an impact in their communities, organisations, or sectors.
Applicants should have:
- 5–15 years of relevant professional experience
- Experience addressing complex social, economic, environmental, or development challenges
- A commitment to creating positive change
- The ability to collaborate across different sectors and communities
- A vision for advancing innovative solutions
The fellowship welcomes leaders from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, including those working in areas such as:
- Climate action
- Economic opportunity
- Community development
- Health and wellbeing
- Education
- Social innovation
- Systems transformation
Participants are expected to bring bold ideas, local knowledge, and a commitment to building solutions that benefit communities.
Leadership Development and Learning Opportunities
Selected fellows participate in an intensive five-month experience focused on strengthening their leadership capabilities.
The programme provides an integrative curriculum designed to help participants develop important skills in:
- Building effective theories of change
- Creating strong partnerships
- Communicating ideas through powerful storytelling
- Developing strategies for long-term impact
Through interactive learning sessions, fellows gain new perspectives and practical tools that can help them increase the reach and effectiveness of their work.
The fellowship also creates opportunities for participants to learn from one another through a global community of innovators, thinkers, and problem-solvers.
Access to a Global Network of Changemakers
One of the key benefits of the Big Bets Fellowship is becoming part of a growing international network of leaders.
Fellows gain access to:
- Previous and current fellowship participants
- Global experts and mentors
- Opportunities for collaboration
- Professional development activities
- International events and platforms
This network allows participants to exchange knowledge, build partnerships, and continue advancing their work beyond the fellowship period.
The Rockefeller Foundation aims to create a community where leaders can support one another and develop solutions that address global challenges.
Fellowship Benefits and Stipend
Participants selected for the Big Bets Fellowship receive support throughout the programme, including professional development opportunities and access to exclusive networks.
The fellowship provides:
- A USD $5,000 stipend (subject to applicable taxes and withholding)
- Leadership training and mentorship
- Global networking opportunities
- Opportunities to showcase innovative solutions
The stipend supports fellows during their participation in the programme, although selection does not include funding for implementing individual projects.
2026 Africa Cohort Opportunity
For 2026, The Rockefeller Foundation hosted a dedicated Africa cohort, bringing together leaders from across the continent who are developing locally rooted solutions.
The cohort highlighted changemakers working across countries including:
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Nigeria
- South Africa
- Tanzania
The programme recognised the important role African leaders play in creating solutions that respond to regional challenges while contributing to global progress.
Although applications for the 2026 cohorts are now closed, interested leaders can join The Rockefeller Foundation’s Big Bets community to receive updates about future application cycles.
Why This Fellowship Matters for Emerging Leaders
Global challenges require leaders who can think beyond traditional solutions and create new pathways for change.
The Big Bets Fellowship provides a platform for individuals who are ready to strengthen their leadership skills, connect with other innovators, and accelerate their impact.
For professionals working in development, social innovation, sustainability, and community transformation, the fellowship represents an opportunity to grow within a global movement of leaders committed to building a better future.
Future applicants are encouraged to prepare early by developing their leadership experience, strengthening their impact stories, and following updates from The Rockefeller Foundation for upcoming opportunities.
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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
