The START Fellowship Accelerator 2026 was created to close that gap. It equips high-potential founders with the tools, resources, and global connections they need to scale their startups.
This guide gives you a full overview of the program, including eligibility, benefits, selection process, and how to apply.
About the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026
The START Fellowship Accelerator is a prestigious program designed for early-stage founders from Africa and Latin America. It focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to build impactful businesses through:
- High-level mentorship from global experts
- Access to international investor networks
- Hands-on training and skill development
- A strong peer-to-peer support community
The 2026 edition continues to provide a unique bridge between founders from the Global South and the global innovation ecosystem in Europe and beyond.
Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify for the START Fellowship Accelerator 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment at a partner university in LatAm or Africa (If you’re not already enrolled, they still encourage you to apply since they can help you to get enrolled upon being selected for the program);
- You are between 18 – 25 years old;
- Committed to founding;
- You already have an MVP or a first prototype;
- English C1 Level.
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Benefits of the Program
The program offers more than knowledge, it delivers tangible support that founders need. Selected entrepreneurs receive:
- Get immersed in the most vibrant Startup hubs of Europe and connect with the key stakeholders of the entrepreneurial ecosystem at events, or trips.
- Hosted by experts from a wide range of backgrounds, their Workshops offer insights into key topics regarding your Startup, including Fundraising, Marketing, Sales and more.
- Your two Mentors guide you throughout the entire accelerator in bi-weekly meetings, provide you with advice and all the support you need to see your Startup succeed.
- At the end of the accelerator, you’ll pitch your Startup to investors and ecosystem leaders, with the chance to secure funding and gain high-level exposure.
- You’ll get 24/7 access to an inspiring office full of driven founders, unlimited coffee, and a space designed to boost productivity and motivation.
- You’ll join exclusive events across Europe, connect with fellow founders, investors, and partners, and grow your network in the global startup ecosystem.
- You’ll have the opportunity to pitch in front of a jury and compete for up to 60k in equity-free funding to accelerate your startup’s growth.
- They cover your apartment, health insurance, and food allowance—so you can focus entirely on building your Startup without financial worries.
Application Deadline: September 14, 2025
