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Each year a unique program at Queen’s University helps more than 1,000 aspiring entrepreneurs in Africa learn how to start their own business from the ground up. The Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship has been connecting African students and recent graduates with free online business training since 2020. Graduates of the program have gone on to start successful ventures, pursue further education, and help improve their communities.

The program is run by the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University (DDQIC), which connects the participants in the program with training, resources, financial support, and a network of mentors to develop their entrepreneurial skills and start building their own venture. The program has three phases over eight months that move participants from laying the foundations of a venture to launching their project and competing in pitch competitions for seed funding.

“This unique opportunity helps participants develop an entrepreneurial mindset and skillset through coursework and mentorship,” says Megan Sieroka, Manager, International Programs, DDQIC. “Every year we’re inspired by the talent and work ethic of students in the fellowship and have seen many of their innovative ventures flourish in their communities and beyond. We look forward to welcoming the next group of fellows and seeing their ideas and skills develop as the program goes along.”

Projects developed by program graduates include ventures focused on footwear for people with walking disabilities, ecofriendly packaging. and tools to help people manage type 2 diabetes.

With applications now open for the 2026 cohort, alumni from the program are reflecting on their experience in the program to encourage their peers to apply.

“The fellowship has been a pivotal chapter in my journey, transforming my perspective on entrepreneurship and my capabilities,” says Volviane Saphir, founder of AssistMom and a Fellow from the 2024 cohort. “Entering the program, I never imagined I could be an entrepreneur. The structured curriculum, insightful coaching, and supportive community of fellow innovators have empowered me. I have developed essential business management and strategic thinking skills, and I've become more resilient and adaptable. This program has reshaped my identity, turning me from a scholar into an entrepreneur committed to making a difference in my community.”

Participants can complete the online program at their own pace, but they must meet deadlines and complete assignments to move on to subsequent phases. Participants do not need to have an existing business before they apply.

“The program gave me the confidence that I belong at the table where solutions are shaped and that Africa’s youth can lead global transformation,” says Christian Adoh, Program Mentor and former fellow.

Program background

The Mastercard Foundation created these fellowships through an endowed donation to Queen’s University in honour of Jim Leech, former Chair of the Board of Directors of the Mastercard Foundation and Chancellor Emeritus of Queen’s. In 2014, Leech was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada for his contributions as an innovator in pension management, for his writings about retirement funding, and for his community involvement.

Applications for the program are open until Dec. 15. Queen’s faculty, staff, and students who are interested in helping support the program are encouraged to reach out to DDQIC.

Learn more on the DDQIC website.