Social entrepreneurs and senior decision-makers working on solutions to poverty in Southeast Asia can apply for the 2027 Acumen Fellowship. The eight-month programme begins in April 2027 and combines in-person immersions, virtual learning, coaching, and peer support.
Overview
The Fellowship is designed for leaders who are already building or scaling solutions to poverty and injustice. Acumen looks for applicants with a strong record of professional experience, a clear commitment to the region, and the authority to influence the direction of their organisation or venture.
Approximately 20 Fellows are selected for each regional cohort. The programme includes a five-day orientation, two five-day in-person immersions, virtual labs, self-paced learning, and monthly one-to-one engagement.
Benefits
- Programme Costs: Acumen covers programme-related expenses for selected Fellows.
- Immersion Travel Support: Lodging, food, and transportation associated with programme immersions are covered under the current terms.
- Leadership Development: Fellows complete a structured curriculum focused on moral leadership and practical change.
- Peer Community: Participants join a regional cohort and the wider Acumen Fellows network.
- Coaching: The programme includes monthly one-to-one support and structured reflection.
- No Venture Grant: The Fellowship does not provide direct investment or business funding to participating ventures.
Eligibility
- Region: Applicants must reside in or directly serve communities in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Experience: Applicants should have at least five years of professional experience.
- Leadership Role: The programme is intended for social entrepreneurs and senior decision-makers with real influence over an organisation or initiative.
- Poverty Focus: Applicants should be working on solutions that address poverty or related injustice.
- English and Internet: Working English and reliable internet access are required.
- Attendance: Fellows must be able to complete the programme’s required sessions and immersions.
How to Apply
- Deadline: Applications close on December 6, 2026.
- Assess Fit: Confirm that your work, geography, experience, and leadership role match the current Southeast Asia cohort criteria.
- Prepare the Application: Explain the problem you are addressing, your leadership role, your impact, and what you want to develop through the Fellowship.
- Submit: Complete the official Acumen Academy Fellowship application before the deadline.
