India Acumen Fellowship 2025–26: Transformative Leadership for Social Entrepreneurs

Omran Aburayya
Sep 5
2 min read

If you're a social entrepreneur or a senior decision-maker committed to tackling poverty in India, the India Acumen Fellowship 2025–26 is now accepting applications. This transformative, fully funded program is designed to equip leaders with the tools, mindset, and community to scale their impact and create meaningful change.

🎓 Fellowship Summary

Location: India (Hybrid Program)
Host Institution: Acumen Academy
Target Group: Social entrepreneurs and senior decision-makers
Fields of Focus: Social entrepreneurship, poverty alleviation, moral leadership
Value & Coverage: Fully funded; includes all program-related expenses such as travel, lodging, and meals during immersives
Duration: 6 months (March 2026 – August 2026)
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025
Start Date: March 2, 2026
Eligible To: Individuals worldwide

🌐 Fellowship Overview

The India Acumen Fellowship is a 6-month hybrid program that combines virtual sessions, in-person immersives, and self-paced learning. Fellows remain in their current roles while engaging in the program, which includes:

One 3-day virtual orientation
Two 5-day full-time in-person immersives
Four 4-hour Learning Labs

🧩 The curriculum focuses on:

Polarity Management: Navigating opposing views to mobilize others
Good Society Readings: Exploring the moral foundations of social change
Adaptive Leadership: Understanding stakeholders and catalyzing change
Authentic Voice: Telling compelling stories to inspire action

Upon successful completion, fellows join Acumen's global community, the Foundry, gaining access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and a network of like-minded leaders.

🎁 Fellowship Benefits

Fully Funded Program: Covers all expenses related to the fellowship
Curriculum: Designed to develop both hard and soft leadership skills
Global Community: Access to a network of over 1,600 alumni worldwide
Mentorship: Guidance from experienced leaders and experts
Funding Opportunities: Access to early-stage funding through Acumen Angels

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Minimum of 5 years of work experience
Demonstrated commitment to solving issues of poverty
Reliable internet connection and availability to participate throughout the program
Over the age of 18
Organizations should have at least two team members

📝 Application Procedure

Read the Applicant Toolkit: Prepare for your application by understanding the program's expectations and requirements.
Submit the Online Application: Complete and submit your application by October 30, 2025.
Participate in the Selection Conference: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 2-day virtual conference on January 16–17, 2026.
Start Your Fellowship Journey: Selected fellows will begin the program on March 2, 2026.