The Truist Foundation Fellowship is a highly competitive, fully funded leadership and venture development program offered in partnership with Lynn University’s Watson Institute. Its goal is to assist small business owners, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit founders who are working to develop inclusive solutions for underserved and underbanked communities across the United States.
The 16-week fellowship, which runs from March to June, blends in-depth practical business training with one-on-one guidance from seasoned company executives. In order to improve their business models, bolster operations, and scale sustainable effect, participants have access to peer learning opportunities, capital networks, and useful tools. Additionally, graduates join a long-term alumni network that offers support, resources, and chances for cooperation outside of the program.
Leading the way in fellowship-based education for social impact entrepreneurs worldwide, the Watson Institute is renowned for its immersive learning methodology, top-notch mentoring, and robust local and global networks that enable founders to transform audacious concepts into long-lasting, quantifiable impact.
Host Country: USA
Program Offered: The Truist Foundation, Lynn University’s Watson Institute
University: Lynn University
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Eligibility Country: International Students, Domestic Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates must be at least eighteen years old.
- You must be an entrepreneur, small company owner, or nonprofit leader.
- The company or organization ought to have been in operation for one to five years.
- Less than ten workers should make up the squad.
- must exhibit early traction, such as
- Customers that are involved and active
- Measurable effects on society and/or the economy
- A certain amount of money, such as income, grants, investments, or contributions, should already be obtained.
- Throughout the 16-week program, complete dedication to active participation is necessary.
- The business must aggressively assist underserved or underbanked communities.
Benefits:
Business & Leadership Workshops
- Expert-led sessions covering entrepreneurship, finance, operations, and leadership
- Hands-on, real-world learning from experienced founders and investors
Mentorship & Capital Connections
- One-on-one mentorship through the Watson Institute’s global network of experts
- Direct introductions to investors, funders, and strategic partners
Basecamps (Community Impact Workshops)
- Design and facilitate a 1–3 day workshop for early-stage entrepreneurs in your community
- Receive training and a stipend to help strengthen your local entrepreneurial ecosystem
Pitch Training & In-Person Summit
- Guided pitch development and storytelling coaching
- Opportunity to present your venture at a live Summit to mentors, investors, community leaders, and Truist Foundation representatives
Long-Term Alumni Support
- Lifetime access to the Watson Institute alumni network
- Continued mentorship, resources, and access to funding opportunities
Deadline: 12 January 2026
