YLAI Fellowship 2026: A U.S.-Funded Opportunity for Young Entrepreneurs

Applications are now open for the 2026 edition of the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship. This program offers ambitious entrepreneurs from Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean a fully funded opportunity to enhance their leadership skills and build their businesses through an intensive fellowship in the United States.

What the Fellowship Offers

Since 2015, the YLAI Fellowship has supported over 1,750 business leaders by connecting them with professional opportunities and expert guidance. The 2026 program includes:

• Professional Exchange: Fellows are paired with U.S.-based host businesses where they’ll gain practical experience and develop an Entrepreneurial Leadership Action Plan (E-LAP).
• Training Curriculum: Designed in partnership with Arizona State University and IREX, the program includes leadership and entrepreneurship training through a mix of digital and in-person learning.
• Networking Forums: The program opens with an orientation and closes with a capstone event in Washington, D.C., bringing together entrepreneurs, U.S. government representatives, and private sector leaders.
• Post-Program Engagement: Fellows continue to receive mentorship and may host their U.S. partners in their home countries through the Outbound Exchange Program.

If needed, a virtual version of the fellowship will be offered to ensure accessibility and continuity.

Coverage Includes:

• Return travel to/from the U.S.
• J-1 visa support (dependents not permitted)
• Lodging and daily expenses
• Health insurance
• Domestic travel linked to the program
• Free application and participation

Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates:

• Are between 25 and 35 years old by January 1, 2026
• Hold citizenship and residency in one of the eligible countries
• Own or operate a business for at least two years
• Are not U.S. citizens or residents
• Qualify for a J-1 visa
• Are fluent in English and can complete the application independently
• Have a clear commitment to community impact through business leadership

Evaluation Criteria: Applicants will be selected based on:

• Proven business experience
• Community engagement
• How well their goals align with the fellowship mission
• Demonstrated leadership and initiative
• English fluency, assessed during interviews

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews in July 2025, with final notifications expected in August.

To apply or learn more: https://ylai.state.gov/fellowship/#info