Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship: Fully Funded Virtual Program for Mobility & Transportation Entrepreneurs

Are you an entrepreneur or community leader passionate about improving mobility and transportation? The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship, in collaboration with the Watson Institute, offers a fully funded 16-week intensive program aimed at scaling ventures and fostering lasting social impact in mobility and accessibility.

About the Fellowship

This distinguished program supports entrepreneurs developing solutions to enhance transportation access and mobility services. Through mentorship, training, and a strong collaborative network, Fellows will acquire essential tools to expand their ventures and refine their leadership abilities. Fully funded by Ford Philanthropy, this fellowship allows participants to focus on growth without financial concerns.

Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates include:

• Entrepreneurs & Community Leaders spearheading initiatives that enhance transportation access, mobile services, or mobility solutions.

• Venture Stage: Applicants should have a functional product with measurable impact and require additional support to scale.

• Commitment: A full 16-week engagement is required, including a 2-week virtual immersive experience.

• Eligible Countries: Applicants from the following nations are encouraged to apply:

  • Brazil

  • Germany

  • Mexico

  • Philippines

  • Spain

  • South Africa

  • Thailand

  • United Kingdom (including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)

  • Vietnam

Program Details

• Duration: 16 weeks

• Start Date: February 24, 2025

• End Date: June 17, 2025

• Session Schedule: Virtual workshops held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM (MT)

• Immersive Experience: A 2-week foundational virtual experience, requiring 10-15 hours per week.

Key Features of the Fellowship

1. Basecamp Community Workshops

   • Fellows will conduct 1-3 day Impact Workshops in their communities to foster engagement and collaboration.

2. Venture Development Stipend

   • Fellows may receive up to $6,000 in stipends based on their impact and program performance.

3. Pitch Training & Summit

   • Fellows will refine pitching skills and present their ventures to local leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs at the Fellowship Summit.

Application Process

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Submit Application: Complete the online form (approximately 45 minutes).

2. Priority Deadline: January 12, 2025 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis thereafter).

3. First Round Review: The admissions team evaluates applications based on leadership potential and venture scalability.

4. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a 20-minute Zoom interview.

5. Final Selection: The Admissions Committee selects the most promising candidates.

6. Notification of Acceptance: Accepted applicants will be informed by February 10, 2025.

7. Confirm & Enroll: Accepted Fellows must confirm participation and attend a “Meet the Cohort” webinar before program commencement on February 27, 2025.

Fellowship Benefits

Venture Acceleration & Leadership Development

Weekly expert-led workshops on:

• Mobility venture fundamentals

• Data analytics & performance metrics

• Product-market alignment

• Fundraising strategies

• Leadership & team management

• Investor pitching techniques

Community & Networking Opportunities

Fellows will:

• Collaborate with entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders.

• Engage with Watson Institute Alumni.

• Participate in self-organized Fellow events.

Mentorship & Industry Expertise

Fellows gain insights from top industry professionals through:

• Preceptor Advisory Boards

• Impact Speaker Series

• Mentor Bonanza Sessions

Basecamp: Community Impact Initiative

Each Fellow will organize a Basecamp event, a 1-3 day community workshop aimed at amplifying social impact. Fellows will receive:

• A stipend to facilitate the event.

• A structured playbook and team assistance.

• Opportunities to engage local stakeholders and gather feedback.

Why Apply?

The Ford Philanthropy Mobility Fellowship offers an unmatched opportunity to develop mobility-focused ventures, receive world-class mentorship, and join a global network of change-makers. Whether you are enhancing transportation accessibility, mobile services, or sustainable mobility solutions, this fellowship can accelerate your impact.

Apply now and become a pioneer in the future of mobility!