The START Fellowship Accelerator is a three-month programme held in Switzerland that aims to support and uplift emerging startup founders from Latin America and Africa. It provides participants with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Europe’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem while receiving the training, mentorship, and resources needed to grow their ventures.
This fellowship is tailored specifically for young, first-time founders who are at the early stages of building their startups. By offering financial support, equity-free funding opportunities, and access to world-class mentors, the programme creates a strong platform for participants to refine their business models, scale their impact, and establish meaningful connections within the global startup community.
Key Information
- Application Deadline: 14 September 2025
- Programme Duration: 3 months
- Location: Switzerland
- Target Audience: First-time startup founders aged 18–25 from Latin America and Africa
Fellowship Benefits
Selected participants will receive extensive support, including:
- Comprehensive Financial Support:
- Accommodation, health insurance, and a food allowance are fully covered.
- Equity-free Funding:
- Fellows may compete for up to CHF 60,000 (approx. USD 66,000) in equity-free capital.
- Structured Learning & Mentorship:
- Interactive sessions with leading investors and entrepreneurs
- Academic input from the University of St. Gallen
- Bi-weekly coaching with two dedicated mentors
- Thematic workshops on fundraising, marketing, sales, and more
- Networking Opportunities:
- Trips to Europe’s most dynamic startup hubs
- A collaborative community of ambitious founders
- 24/7 access to modern office facilities (including unlimited coffee)
- Showcase Opportunities:
- A final Demo Day where fellows pitch to investors, funders, and startup ecosystem leaders.
ALSO LOOK UP:
INNOVATE 360 – Global Summit on Technology & Sustainable Futures (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a first-time founder between 18 and 25 years old
- Originating from Latin America or Africa
- Be enrolled at a partner university in either region
- Possess a minimum viable product (MVP) or first prototype
- Demonstrate English proficiency at C1 level or higher
Note: Candidates not yet enrolled are still encouraged to apply, as the programme may support enrolment for selected fellows
Application Process
- Submission: Applications must be completed online through the official portal (link not provided in the source images).
- Team Applications: Each co-founder is strongly advised to submit an individual application since all applications are assessed independently.
Further Information
Complete details, including application instructions, can be found on the official START Fellowship Accelerator website.
APPLY FOR THE START FELLOWSHIP
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