Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship by Watson Institute – Fully Funded Virtual Program for Entrepreneurs in Mobility and Transportation
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship is a fully-funded, intensive venture and leadership development program designed to empower entrepreneurs and community leaders dedicated to improving mobility, transportation, and accessibility. By providing essential training, mentorship, and a supportive community, this fellowship helps participants scale their mobility-based businesses and enhance their leadership skills.
About the Opportunity
This fellowship is aimed at entrepreneurs focused on increasing access to transportation or building services on wheels. The program offers a unique opportunity to develop both entrepreneurial and leadership skills, providing Fellows with the tools they need to drive social impact within their communities.
The fellowship is fully funded by Ford Philanthropy, enabling participants to focus solely on growing their ventures without financial barriers.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
This fellowship is designed for entrepreneurs and community leaders who are committed to creating sustainable, scalable impact in the fields of mobility, transportation, or accessibility. Below are the key eligibility requirements:
Who Should Apply?
- Entrepreneurs or Community Leaders: You must be leading or involved in a venture that focuses on increasing transportation access, building mobile solutions, or providing mobility-based services.
- Stage of Venture: Ideal applicants are in the ‘missing middle’ stage, meaning your venture is beyond prototyping but still needs support to grow. You should have a proven product, traction, and measurable impact in both revenue and social impact.
- Commitment: You must be available to commit to the full 16-week program, including the 2-week virtual immersive. Active participation is essential for the success of the program.
- Geographical Focus: The fellowship is open to entrepreneurs and community leaders based in the following countries:
- Brazil
- Germany
- Mexico
- Philippines
- Spain
- South Africa
- Thailand
- United Kingdom (including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
- Vietnam
Demographics
- Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Program Details
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship is a 16-week virtual program that provides comprehensive support to help you grow your mobility-focused venture. Here’s what you can expect:
Program Dates and Structure
- Start Date: February 24th, 2025
- End Date: June 17th, 2025
- Program Duration: 16 weeks
- Schedule: Weekly virtual workshops held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 am – 10:30 am Mountain Time Zone.
- Immersive Experience: A 2-week virtual Immersive starting on February 24th, 2025, requiring a time commitment of approximately 10-15 hours per week. This serves as the foundational experience for the fellowship.
Key Program Features
- Basecamp: Each Fellow will host a 1-3 day Impact Workshop in their community. Basecamps help Fellows showcase their ventures, receive feedback, and expand their network. These workshops provide a hands-on approach to exploring social impact through entrepreneurship.
- Venture Development Stipend: Fellows can earn up to $6,000 in stipends based on performance and impact during the fellowship.
- Pitch Training & Summit: Fellows will refine their pitching skills and present their ventures to local leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs at the Fellowship Summit.
How to Apply: Application Process
The application process for the Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship is open on a rolling basis. Follow the steps below to apply:
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Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form. This should take about 45 minutes to fill out.
- Priority Deadline: January 12th, 2025
- Rolling Review: Applications received after the priority deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
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First Round Review: The admissions team will assess all applications, looking for strong leadership qualities and scalable ventures that have a proven impact.
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Interview: Qualified applicants will be invited for a 20-minute one-on-one Zoom interview to discuss your motivations and venture in more detail.
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Final Selection: The Admissions Committee will review the most promising candidates and select the final Fellows.
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Notification of Acceptance: All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by February 10th, 2025.
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Confirm & Enroll: Once accepted, you will need to confirm your participation and attend a “Meet the Cohort” webinar before the program begins on February 27th, 2025.
Important Dates
- Rolling Acceptance: Applications will be reviewed continuously until spots are filled.
- Program Start Date: February 24th, 2025
Find more information here.
Fellowship Benefits
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship offers a wide range of benefits, including:
Venture Acceleration & Leadership Training
Fellows will engage in weekly expert-led workshops covering:
- Foundations of mobility ventures
- Metrics and data for growth
- Product-market fit
- Funding strategies
- Team management
- Pitching for investment
Community & Network Building
The fellowship fosters strong relationships among a diverse cohort of entrepreneurs. Fellows will:
- Collaborate with peers, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders.
- Engage with Watson Institute Alumni.
- Participate in self-organized Fellow events.
Mentorship & Collaboration
Fellows receive mentorship from renowned leaders and practitioners, including:
- Preceptor Advisory Boards
- Impact Speaker Series
- Mentor Bonanza sessions with industry leaders.
Basecamp: Pay It Forward in Your Community
As part of the fellowship, each Fellow will host a Basecamp event, which is a 1-3 day workshop in their community. These events help Fellows accelerate their impact, build community, and engage local participants. Each Basecamp is supported with a stipend, playbook, and team assistance. Fellows will have the opportunity to host workshops, engage with local stakeholders, and receive valuable feedback to further their ventures.
The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship offers a life-changing opportunity for entrepreneurs and community leaders in the mobility space. With its expert guidance, network-building opportunities, and a chance to make a lasting impact, this fellowship is an ideal platform for those looking to scale their ventures and create positive change in the world.
Apply today and join the next cohort of leaders shaping the future of mobility!
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