START Fellowship Accelerator 2026 for Young Founders from Africa & Latin America

Applications are now open for the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026, a highly competitive program designed to empower early-stage founders from Africa and Latin America. This international accelerator offers a transformative experience by connecting young entrepreneurs to Europe’s thriving startup ecosystem, giving them the tools, network, and resources to scale their ventures globally.

The program runs for three months in Switzerland and provides participants with a unique opportunity to learn directly from experienced entrepreneurs, seasoned investors, and professors at the University of St. Gallen. With hands-on mentorship, immersive workshops, and tailored coaching, the START Fellowship enables founders to strengthen their business models, refine their strategies, and accelerate growth.

By fostering cross-continental collaboration, the fellowship bridges entrepreneurial ecosystems, helping founders from the Global South access the resources, funding, and networks needed to expand their startups internationally.

Benefits of the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026

Selected fellows will gain access to a wide range of opportunities and benefits, including:

• Immersion in Europe’s Startup Hubs: Connect with leading stakeholders, investors, and innovation leaders at top events and startup trips across Europe.
• Expert-led Workshops: Learn directly from industry experts on topics such as fundraising, marketing, sales, product scaling, and leadership.
• Personal Mentorship: Each fellow is paired with two dedicated mentors who provide bi-weekly guidance, feedback, and tailored advice to ensure startups achieve measurable growth.
• High-Level Exposure: At the end of the program, fellows pitch their startups to a jury of investors, ecosystem leaders, and industry experts—unlocking potential investments and global visibility.
• Equity-Free Funding: Fellows have the chance to compete for up to $60,000 in equity-free funding to boost their startup’s growth trajectory.
• All-Inclusive Support Package: Organizers cover accommodation, health insurance, and food allowance, allowing participants to focus fully on their startup journey without financial stress.
• Access to Global Networks: Build strong connections with like-minded founders, investors, and business partners while joining a supportive and collaborative startup community.
• Inspiring Workspace: Fellows enjoy 24/7 access to a dynamic co-working space designed to encourage creativity, productivity, and collaboration—with unlimited coffee included.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be enrolled at a partner university in Africa or Latin America (If not currently enrolled, organizers may assist with enrollment upon selection).
• Be between 18 – 25 years old at the time of application.
• Show strong commitment to entrepreneurship and founding a business.
• Already have a minimum viable product (MVP) or prototype developed.
• Possess an English proficiency level of C1 or higher.

Note: If you have co-founders interested in joining, each co-founder must apply individually. Applications are evaluated separately, and multiple applications from the same team may increase the chances of acceptance.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the online application form by providing details about their startup, vision, and motivation for joining the program. Shortlisted candidates may undergo additional interviews or assessments.

Click here to apply for the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026