Applications are now open for the Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship Cohort 7, a 12 week virtual fellowship designed for emerging and established changemakers who are passionate about improving mental health and promoting wellbeing in their communities. The fellowship provides participants with an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of mental health from African and global perspectives while building practical leadership and advocacy skills. The programme brings together participants from different professional, cultural and lived experience backgrounds for an intensive learning experience led by mental health experts, practitioners, researchers and leaders. Fellows explore topics ranging from community mental health and lived experience to neuropsychology and the relationship between the brain, mind, environment and society. Rather than focusing only on awareness, the fellowship is designed to help participants translate knowledge into meaningful community action. Throughout the programme, fellows develop practical approaches to addressing mental health challenges and strengthen their ability to influence positive change within their communities and institutions. About the Fellowship The Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship is a virtual learning and leadership programme focused on strengthening the capacity of changemakers to advocate for mental health and wellbeing. The 12 week programme provides a collaborative learning environment where participants can examine mental health issues through African and global perspectives. Fellows engage with experienced professionals and explore different dimensions of mental health, including community wellbeing, lived experience, neuropsychology and social factors influencing mental health. The fellowship also emphasizes the importance of connecting knowledge with action. Participants are expected to use their learning to develop practical responses to mental health challenges in their own communities. Fellowship Benefits Successful fellows will receive: • A 12 week virtual fellowship experience. • Learning sessions led by mental health experts, practitioners, researchers and leaders. • Exposure to African and global perspectives on mental health. • Opportunities to strengthen leadership and advocacy skills. • Practical knowledge for addressing mental health challenges in communities. • Opportunities to connect with other changemakers and professionals. • Exposure to diverse perspectives and lived experiences. • Support in developing a Community Impact Capstone Project. • Opportunities to turn fellowship learning into practical community action. • Membership in a growing network of mental health advocates and changemakers. Fellowship Areas The Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship covers a range of topics related to mental health, wellbeing and community impact. Fellows may explore: • Community mental health. • Mental health advocacy. • Lived experience and mental wellbeing. • Neuropsychology. • The relationship between the brain, mind and environment. • Social factors influencing mental health. • Mental health disparities. • Community development. • Leadership and social impact. • Practical approaches to mental health promotion. • Designing community based mental health initiatives. The fellowship encourages participants to consider mental health within the realities of their own communities and to develop approaches that can contribute to lasting positive change. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship Cohort 7, applicants should: • Be at least 18 years old. • Have a strong commitment to eliminating mental health disparities and promoting mental wellbeing. • Be interested in or engaged in mental health, community development, advocacy, education, healthcare, research, humanitarian work or a related field. • Hold or aspire to leadership positions. • Demonstrate the ability to influence positive change within their community or institution. • Value diversity, inclusion and learning from different perspectives. • Have access to a computer. • Have a reliable internet connection. • Be able to actively participate in virtual fellowship sessions. • Be able to design and implement a Community Impact Capstone Project that benefits their community. Required Application Information Applicants should be prepared to provide information demonstrating their interest, experience and potential contribution to the fellowship. The application should communicate: • Your background and relevant experience. • Your interest in mental health and community wellbeing. • Your leadership experience or leadership aspirations. • Your involvement in community development, advocacy, education, healthcare, research, humanitarian work or related areas. • Your motivation for joining the fellowship. • Your understanding of mental health challenges affecting your community. • Your potential to contribute to positive change. • Your ability to participate actively in a virtual programme. • Your ideas for a Community Impact Capstone Project. Applicants should ensure that their responses clearly demonstrate their motivation, leadership potential and commitment to mental health advancement. Selection Criteria Applications will be assessed based on several factors connected to the fellowship’s goals. Strong candidates should demonstrate: • Leadership potential and community impact. • A clear commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing. • Availability and willingness to participate actively in fellowship sessions. • The ability to engage in collaborative activities and assignments. • A meaningful personal motivation for mental health advocacy and systems change. • An appreciation for lived experience and diverse perspectives. • A commitment to diversity and inclusion. • Potential to design and implement a useful Community Impact Capstone Project. The selection process aims to create a diverse cohort representing different identities, geographical locations, cultures, professional backgrounds and lived experiences. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship Cohort 7. Confirm that you meet the age, leadership, community engagement and participation requirements. Reflect on your experience or interest in mental health, community development, advocacy, education, healthcare, research or related areas. Prepare information about your leadership experience and your motivation for promoting mental health and wellbeing. Develop an initial idea for a Community Impact Capstone Project that could benefit your community. Ensure that you have access to a computer and reliable internet connection for the virtual fellowship. Complete the online application through the Nivishe Foundation fellowship application platform. Review your responses carefully and ensure that they clearly communicate your commitment, leadership potential and community impact.
Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship 2027
Applications are now open for the Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship 2027, a fully funded professional fellowship hosted by the British Library in the United Kingdom. The fellowship is designed for mid career professionals from Egypt, Palestine and Sudan who have strong expertise or professional interests in Coptic manuscript heritage and cultural collections. The fellowship provides a unique opportunity to spend 12 months working with the British Library’s internationally significant Coptic manuscript collections. Fellows will undertake a research project that combines manuscript expertise, language skills, collection documentation and public engagement. During the fellowship, the successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Michael Erdman, Head of Asian and African Studies on an interim basis, to survey the British Library’s Coptic holdings, improve catalogue records, investigate manuscript provenance and develop new approaches to community and public engagement. About the Fellowship The Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship provides an opportunity for an experienced researcher or cultural heritage professional to contribute to the documentation, interpretation and promotion of one of the world’s important collections of Coptic manuscripts. The British Library holds hundreds of complete and fragmentary Coptic codices, together with papyrus, parchment and paper fragments documenting more than 1,500 years of Coptic history, theology and literary culture. Many parts of the collection remain difficult to discover because a comprehensive overview of the holdings has not yet been produced. The selected fellow will contribute to addressing this challenge by examining the collections, identifying gaps in existing documentation and creating or improving catalogue records. Fellowship Benefits Successful fellows will receive: • A 12 month project based fellowship at the British Library. • Living expenses for the full duration of the fellowship. • Return economy airfare. • An allowance package for fellowship related activities. • Up to £1,000 for approved project related expenses. • Professional experience at one of the world’s leading research libraries and cultural heritage institutions. • Specialist experience in manuscript cataloguing and collections documentation. • Practical experience in provenance research and analysis. • Opportunities to develop public and community engagement activities. • Opportunities to strengthen their international academic and professional profile. Fellowship Areas The fellowship focuses on Coptic manuscripts and cultural heritage collections. The selected fellow will contribute to several areas of work, including: • Surveying the British Library’s Coptic manuscript holdings. • Identifying gaps in existing cataloguing and documentation. • Creating and enhancing catalogue records using manuscript evidence and existing metadata. • Researching and documenting manuscript provenance. • Analysing the history and acquisition of collection materials. • Organising and contributing to events involving Coptic community members and researchers. • Producing blogs, reports and other written outputs about the collections. • Supporting public engagement activities that promote access to and understanding of Coptic heritage. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship 2027, applicants must: • Be a citizen of Egypt, Sudan or Palestine. • Normally be resident in one of these countries, although eligible citizens residing elsewhere in specified ODA eligible countries in the Middle East and North Africa region may also apply. • Demonstrate a clear intention to return to their country of citizenship and contribute there after the fellowship. • Return to their country of citizenship for at least one year after the fellowship ends. • Hold a postgraduate level qualification or equivalent professional training or experience in a relevant area. • Have at least five years of significant professional and or academic research experience. • Be currently employed or enrolled as a PhD candidate. • Not be enrolled in a PhD programme at a university in the UK, European Union or United States. • Have excellent knowledge of Coptic, either Sahidic or Bohairic. • Have good written and spoken English. • Have experience cataloguing and handling manuscript collections. • Have knowledge of manuscript description standards. • Have experience in provenance research and documentation or a demonstrable interest in the field. • Have experience working with heritage communities or delivering engagement activities connected to cultural heritage collections. Knowledge of Arabic and or Greek is desirable. Required Application Information Applicants should prepare information demonstrating their academic and professional experience in Coptic studies, manuscript collections or related cultural heritage fields. The application should communicate: • Academic and professional qualifications. • At least five years of relevant professional or academic research experience. • Experience working with manuscript collections. • Knowledge of Coptic, particularly Sahidic or Bohairic. • Experience with manuscript cataloguing and description. • Experience or interest in provenance research. • Experience working with heritage communities. • A clear understanding of the proposed fellowship project. • Professional and academic goals connected to the fellowship. Applicants should also demonstrate how their experience and specialist knowledge can contribute to the British Library’s work to improve access to and understanding of its Coptic collections. Selection Criteria Applicants will be assessed on their ability to contribute meaningfully to the fellowship project and the wider objectives of the British Library. Strong candidates should demonstrate: • Significant professional or academic research experience. • Excellent knowledge of Coptic. • Strong written and spoken English. • Experience handling and cataloguing manuscripts. • Understanding of manuscript description standards. • Experience or strong interest in provenance research. • Experience engaging with cultural heritage communities. • A clear professional purpose for undertaking the fellowship. • The ability to contribute to research, documentation and public engagement activities. The fellowship is intended for experienced professionals rather than early career applicants. Candidates should therefore demonstrate a substantial record of relevant academic, research or professional work. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship 2027. Confirm that you are a citizen of Egypt, Sudan or Palestine and meet the residency and return requirements. Review your academic and professional experience to ensure that you meet the postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience requirement and have at least five years of relevant experience. Prepare information about your experience with Coptic manuscripts, cataloguing, provenance research and cultural heritage collections. Prepare details demonstrating your Coptic language proficiency and your
Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027
Applications are now open for the Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027, a six month fellowship for social justice changemakers who have a bold idea for creating a more equitable future. The programme provides funding, coaching, mentorship and a community of peers to help participants develop and test new ideas addressing systemic problems in communities across the United States. The fellowship is designed specifically for people whose ideas are still at the dream stage or idea stage. Applicants do not need to have an established organization, finished product, campaign or complete business plan. Instead, Voqal Partners is looking for people with a compelling vision, a clear understanding of the change they want to create and a willingness to explore, test and develop their idea. Eight fellows will be selected for the 2027 cohort. Each fellow will receive a USD 30,000 award, a USD 1,000 healthcare stipend, coaching and mentorship, and travel support for three required in person convenings. Fellows will work on their projects from April through September 2027 while participating in monthly cohort calls and engaging with coaches and advisors. About the Fellowship The Voqal Partners Fellowship supports early stage social justice ideas and the people developing them. The programme is based on the belief that meaningful change can come from bold ideas that challenge existing systems rather than simply making existing systems easier to navigate. The fellowship is suitable for applicants who can identify a problem or systemic failure and have a vision for doing things differently. Projects may be local to a particular community or operate at a national level, provided they focus on communities in the United States. During the six month programme, fellows receive resources to move their ideas from concept toward real world experimentation. The fellowship does not require participants to finish a product or organization by the end of the programme. Instead, fellows are expected to learn, test ideas, make progress and determine how they will continue developing their work. Fellowship Benefits Successful fellows will receive: • A USD 30,000 fellowship award. • A USD 1,000 healthcare stipend. • Three in person fellowship convenings with travel costs covered. • Childcare support for fellows with dependents under 18. • Coaching and mentorship from experienced advisors and coaches. • Access to a cohort of eight fellows. • Connection to an active network of Voqal Partners alumni. • Support for operational, strategic and structural questions. • Freedom to use the USD 30,000 award for expenses that support the fellow and their idea. • Full ownership of intellectual property developed during the fellowship. Fellowship Areas The Voqal Partners Fellowship supports bold ideas addressing social justice and systemic challenges in communities across the United States. Applicants may propose work focused on: • Social justice and equity. • Community organizing. • Social entrepreneurship. • Systems change. • Supporting historically excluded communities. • Addressing discrimination and inequality. • Developing new approaches to community power. • Building solutions alongside people directly affected by a challenge. Projects can be hyperlocal or national in scope. The central requirement is that the proposed work has a clear connection to communities in the United States. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027, applicants must: • Be at least 18 years old. • Be based in the United States. • Be eligible to receive funds in the United States. • Have a bold vision for creating a more equitable future. • Be working on a dream stage or idea stage project. • Have a clear understanding of the change they want to create. • Have a plan or initial ideas about what they want to learn, test or build during the fellowship. • Demonstrate a meaningful connection to the community affected by the issue they are addressing. • Be willing to participate fully in the fellowship activities. • Be able to attend all three required in person convenings. Required Application Materials The application consists of four main sections: • Eligibility information. • Basic details about the applicant and project. • Specific information about the future the applicant wants to create, how they plan to move toward it and what support they need. • Additional details, including information about the applicant’s use of artificial intelligence and previous experience with coaches. Applicants must also submit: • A project name. • Brief descriptions of the proposed idea. • A description of the future the applicant is trying to create. • Information about how the applicant plans to develop the idea. • Information about the support needed during the fellowship. • A budget showing how the USD 30,000 award would be used. • Any relevant final details, links or supporting documents. The budget is not used to evaluate the quality of the application. It is intended to help Voqal Partners understand where applicants are in their planning process. Selection Criteria Voqal Partners looks for projects and applicants that demonstrate: • A dream stage or idea stage concept. • A compelling vision for systemic change. • A bold approach to addressing social justice challenges. • A realistic path toward testing or developing the idea. • Strong alignment with the fellowship’s funding, coaching and community support. • A meaningful connection to the communities most affected by the issue. • Lived experience and community knowledge where relevant. • Potential to contribute to more equitable and lasting solutions. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027. Confirm that you are at least 18 years old, based in the United States and eligible to receive funds in the United States. Develop a clear description of the social justice idea you want to explore, test or build. Explain the future you are trying to create and the systemic issue your idea seeks to address. Describe your connection to the community affected by the issue. Complete the eligibility and basic details sections of the online application. Complete the specific section describing your vision, proposed approach and support needs. Complete the additional details section and provide any relevant links or
International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027 to 2028
Applications are now open for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027 to 2028, a prestigious fellowship programme sponsored by Power Corporation of Canada and administered by the Council on Foreign Relations. The fellowship is designed for mid career professionals in the United States who want to deepen their knowledge of Canada and strengthen their understanding of United States and Canada relations. Launched in 2016, the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada seeks to promote greater mutual understanding and cooperation between emerging generations of leaders and thinkers in the United States and Canada. The programme gives selected fellows an opportunity to spend between six and twelve months at a Canadian institution while pursuing an approved project related to United States and Canada relations. The fellowship welcomes professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, including academia, business, government, journalism, nongovernmental organizations and think tanks. Applicants do not need previous professional experience working in Canada or writing about Canada to be considered. The programme provides a USD 110,000 stipend for a twelve month fellowship, or a prorated amount when the fellowship lasts for a shorter period, together with a modest travel allowance. Fellows undertake the programme full time and in person at a Canadian host organization, normally working on site at least four days each week. About the Fellowship The International Affairs Fellowship in Canada provides mid career American professionals with an opportunity to develop deeper expertise on Canada through direct engagement with Canadian institutions and professionals. During the fellowship, participants work on an approved research or professional project concerning an aspect of United States and Canada relations. The experience is intended to give fellows a deeper understanding of Canadian policymaking, institutions, society and the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The Council on Foreign Relations assists selected fellows in identifying a Canadian host organization that matches their proposed work. However, placement decisions are made by the host institution, and the Council on Foreign Relations cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization or agency. The fellowship is highly competitive, with only one or two fellowships awarded each year. A strong preference is given to candidates who have not previously received a Council on Foreign Relations fellowship. Fellowship Benefits Successful fellows will receive: • A USD 110,000 stipend for a twelve month fellowship. • A prorated stipend when the fellowship lasts for fewer than twelve months. • A modest travel allowance. • A six to twelve month professional and research experience in Canada. • Assistance from the Council on Foreign Relations in identifying a suitable Canadian host organization. • A full time, in person fellowship placement. • Opportunities to engage with Canadian institutions and professionals. • An opportunity to deepen knowledge of Canada and United States and Canada relations. • Professional development through an intensive international affairs experience. Fellowship Areas The International Affairs Fellowship in Canada is suitable for professionals working across a range of fields connected to international affairs and public policy. Potential professional backgrounds include: • Academia and higher education. • Business and the private sector. • Government and public policy. • Journalism and media. • Nongovernmental organizations. • Think tanks and policy research institutions. • Foreign policy and international affairs. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027 to 2028, applicants must: • Be a citizen of the United States. • Be a mid career professional. • Have a strong record of professional achievement. • Demonstrate a commitment to a career in foreign policy. • Have an interest in United States and Canada relations. • Hold at least a bachelor’s degree. • Hold a United States passport that remains valid for at least six months after the fellowship end date. Applicants from academia, business, government, journalism, nongovernmental organizations and think tanks are encouraged to apply. Previous professional experience working in Canada or writing about Canada is not required. Required Application Materials Applicants will need to provide: • Basic biographical information. • Educational information. • Employment information. • A project proposal related to an aspect of United States and Canada relations. • Proposed Canadian placements or host organizations. • Two letters of support. Selection Criteria The International Affairs Fellowship in Canada is highly competitive and only one or two fellowships are awarded each year. Applications are assessed based on: • Scholarly qualifications and professional experience. • The merits of the proposed project. • The feasibility of the proposed research or professional project. • The relevance of the project to United States and Canada relations. • Character and personal qualities that support cross cultural communication and cooperation. • The potential contribution of the fellowship to the applicant’s career development. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027 to 2028. Confirm that you are a United States citizen and hold a valid United States passport. Prepare a project proposal focused on an aspect of United States and Canada relations. Identify potential Canadian host organizations or placements that align with your proposed project. Prepare your biographical, educational and employment information. Obtain two letters of support from appropriate professional or academic contacts. Complete the online application through the Council on Foreign Relations application platform. Review your application carefully to ensure that the project proposal, proposed placements and supporting materials are complete. Submit your application by October 30, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by spring 2027.
Next 36 Program 2027 for Canadian Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for the Next 36 Program 2027, an intensive entrepreneurship programme designed for undergraduate students, master’s students and recent graduates across Canada who have the ambition to build innovative and high growth ventures. Each year, NEXT Canada selects 36 promising entrepreneurs from across the country and provides them with the education, mentorship, resources and networks needed to develop their entrepreneurial ideas. The programme is designed for ambitious young entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey. Applicants may already have an early stage startup that they want to develop further, or they may have an idea that they want to transform into a viable venture. The programme provides practical support for participants who want to learn how to build, launch and scale a business. The Next 36 Program 2027 will run for eight months. The first four months, from January to April 2027, will be delivered virtually. The remaining four months, from May to August 2027, will take place in person in Toronto, Canada. During the in person summer period, participants are expected to commit full time to the programme and attend required activities in Toronto. About the Programme Next 36 is a high touch entrepreneurship programme that combines academic learning, mentorship, workshops and practical venture development. Participants learn from successful entrepreneurs, experienced mentors and award winning faculty while working on their own entrepreneurial ideas or businesses. The programme is intended to help participants move from an idea or early stage venture toward a stronger and more scalable business. Through structured learning and interaction with experienced entrepreneurs, participants can develop their understanding of business development, venture building and growth. Participants also become part of a growing community of more than 1,000 alumni. This network provides opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs, access resources and learn from individuals who have developed ventures through the NEXT Canada ecosystem. Programme Benefits Successful participants will receive access to: • Entrepreneurship education from successful entrepreneurs and award winning faculty. • Practical guidance on how to build, launch and scale a venture. • A community of more than 1,000 alumni. • Coaching and entrepreneurial resources. • NEXT Canada’s investor network. • A mentor who has successfully launched a venture. • A productive workspace surrounded by other talented entrepreneurs during the in person programme. • Venture support services from programme partners. • Access to services such as cloud hosting, legal support and other business resources. • Opportunities to develop relationships with entrepreneurs, investors, mentors and other members of the Canadian innovation ecosystem. Programme Areas Participants will have opportunities to develop their abilities in: • Venture creation and development. • Business building and entrepreneurship. • Product and venture development. • Launching early stage businesses. • Scaling innovative ventures. • Leadership and problem solving. • Accessing entrepreneurial networks and resources. • Investor and mentor engagement. The programme is open to applicants from any academic discipline, allowing participants with different educational and professional interests to bring diverse perspectives to entrepreneurship. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Next 36 Program 2027, applicants must: • Be an undergraduate student, master’s student or recent graduate. • Be studying at or have graduated from a school in Canada. • Come from any academic discipline. • Have an early stage venture or an idea for a new venture. • Demonstrate entrepreneurial potential. • Be willing to participate fully in the programme. • Commit full time to the summer intensive period from May to August 2027. • Be available to be present in Toronto for required sessions during the summer intensive period. • Participate in all mandatory programme activities. • Agree to abide by NEXT Canada’s code of conduct. Required Application Information Applicants will be asked to provide information that demonstrates their educational background, entrepreneurial interests and personal potential. The application requires: • Information about your education experience. • Responses to short answer questions. • A short video responding to an interview question. • A video of no more than 60 seconds. • Any additional information requested through the online application. Selection Criteria Next 36 is looking for individuals with strong entrepreneurial potential and the motivation to build meaningful ventures. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate qualities including: • Strong problem solving ability. • Commitment to creating positive social impact. • Community leadership. • Academic leadership. • Entrepreneurial ambition. • A willingness to learn from experienced entrepreneurs and mentors. • The potential to develop an existing early stage venture or transform an idea into a viable business. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the Next 36 Program 2027. Confirm that you are an undergraduate student, master’s student or recent graduate from a Canadian institution. Consider whether you want to develop an existing early stage venture or transform a new idea into a business. Prepare information about your education experience and entrepreneurial interests. Complete the short answer questions included in the application. Record a short video answering the required interview question, ensuring that it does not exceed 60 seconds. Submit the completed application through the Next 36 online application platform. You can save your application and return to complete it at any time before the deadline. Submit your final application by October 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
ACU Early Career Conference Grants 2026 to 2027
Applications are now open for the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) Early Career Conference Grants 2026 to 2027, a funding opportunity designed to help emerging researchers and academics attend and participate in international conferences in Commonwealth countries outside their country of work. The grants are intended to support early career academic staff who may not yet have had the opportunity to participate in an international conference. Through the funding, successful applicants can attend an eligible in person conference, present their research, develop professional connections and gain exposure to new developments in their academic field. The ACU is offering seven grants for the 2026 to 2027 cycle, with each grant worth up to GBP 2,000. The funding can support eligible costs including conference registration, flights, accommodation, visa costs, travel insurance and health insurance. About the Grant. The ACU Early Career Conference Grants help emerging researchers benefit from the academic and professional opportunities provided by international conferences. For early career academics, conferences can provide an important platform for sharing research, receiving feedback, learning about developments in their discipline and building professional networks. The experience can also help researchers bring new knowledge and ideas back to their universities and share them with colleagues and students. The grant is particularly designed for researchers who have not previously travelled outside their region of employment for work purposes since beginning their academic career. This requirement reflects the aim of providing international conference opportunities to researchers who may have had limited access to them. Grant Benefits Successful applicants will receive funding of up to GBP 2,000 to support eligible conference related expenses. The grant can be used for: • Conference registration fees. • International or other eligible flights. • Accommodation. • Visa costs. • Travel insurance. • Health insurance. • Participation in an eligible conference in another Commonwealth country. • Professional networking and research presentation opportunities. Conference Areas The Early Career Conference Grants are open to researchers across academic disciplines, provided the proposed conference and research activity meet the programme requirements. Applicants can use the grant to participate in conferences where they will: • Chair an academic session. • Present a research paper. • Present a research poster. • Share research findings with an international academic audience. • Develop professional connections with researchers and academics from other Commonwealth countries. • Gain knowledge that can contribute to their teaching, research and wider academic work. The proposed conference must take place between February 2027 and January 2028. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the ACU Early Career Conference Grants 2026 to 2027, applicants must: • Be an early career researcher or academic employed at an ACU member university. • Be within seven years of the start of their academic research or teaching career. • Have career breaks taken for personal or professional reasons excluded when determining the seven year period. • Identify a conference taking place between February 2027 and January 2028. • Choose a conference held in a Commonwealth country outside their country of work. • Be chairing a session, presenting a paper or presenting a poster at the proposed conference. • Demonstrate that the conference is relevant to their research interests and professional development. Applicants cannot: • Have previously travelled for work purposes, including conferences, outside their region of employment since the beginning of their academic career. • Have previously received an ACU Early Career Conference Grant, formerly known as an Early Career Academic Grant. Required Application Information Applicants will need to provide information about their proposed conference and explain why participation would be valuable to their research and career. The application requires: • Details of the chosen conference. • A copy of the conference abstract. • Information confirming whether the conference is virtual or in person. • An explanation of why the applicant has selected the conference. • An explanation of how the conference connects with the applicant’s research interests. • An explanation of how participation will benefit the applicant’s career and professional development. • An explanation of how knowledge gained at the conference will be shared with colleagues and others. • The Sustainable Development Goal or Goals most closely connected to the applicant’s research. • An explanation of how the applicant’s research can contribute to the selected Sustainable Development Goals. • A detailed letter or email of support from the applicant’s head of department. • A breakdown of costs for which funding is requested when applying for an in person conference. Selection Criteria Applications will be assessed based on the suitability of the proposed conference and the value it is expected to provide to the applicant’s research and professional development. Applicants should demonstrate: • A clear connection between the proposed conference and their research interests. • The relevance of conference participation to their academic career development. • A meaningful opportunity to present or contribute to the conference. • Potential to share knowledge gained through the conference with colleagues and students. • A clear relationship between their research and relevant Sustainable Development Goals. • Strong departmental support for their participation. • A suitable and realistic budget for the expenses being requested. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the ACU Early Career Conference Grants 2026 to 2027. Confirm that you are employed as an early career researcher or academic at an ACU member university. Identify a suitable conference taking place between February 2027 and January 2028 in a Commonwealth country outside your country of work. Confirm that you will chair a session, present a paper or present a poster at the proposed conference. Prepare your conference details, abstract and explanation of how the event connects with your research. Explain how attending the conference will contribute to your career and professional development. Prepare a plan explaining how you will share knowledge gained from the conference. Identify the relevant Sustainable Development Goal or Goals connected to your research and explain the relationship. Obtain a detailed letter or email of support from your head of department. Prepare a breakdown of eligible costs if you are applying to
Pitch Perfect Africa 2026 for Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for Pitch Perfect Africa 2026, a competitive pitch opportunity designed to support entrepreneurs developing health focused innovations across Africa. Now in its second year, the programme provides selected ventures with an opportunity to present their innovations to expert judges while strengthening their investment readiness and gaining access to potential funding. Pitch Perfect Africa was created to provide early stage H2i ventures with funding and pitch opportunities that can help them advance their entrepreneurial journey. The programme has expanded to the H2i African venture community and continues to support entrepreneurs working on innovative solutions to important health challenges across the continent. For the 2026 edition, six H2i Level 2 ventures will be selected to pitch their innovations to a panel of expert judges. From these finalists, three ventures will each receive a CAD $5,000 Innovation Fellowship. About the Competition Pitch Perfect Africa is an initiative created to celebrate and support entrepreneurs developing health focused innovations across Africa. The programme is connected to H2i, which supports ventures through a structured development model. The 2026 competition is focused on H2i Level 2 HENT ventures. At this stage, ventures are in the Discovery stage of H2i’s four level venture development model. Applicants must already be part of the H2i community and must have been onboarded by their lead mentor by August 31, 2026. Six eligible ventures will be selected to participate in the pitch competition. The selected entrepreneurs will present their innovations virtually to a panel of expert judges, giving them an opportunity to demonstrate the problem they are addressing, the value of their solution and the potential impact of their venture. Pitch Perfect Africa also includes preparation activities designed to help selected entrepreneurs strengthen their presentations. These activities include a market research workshop and a masterclass focused on building a winning pitch. Competition Benefits Successful finalists will have the opportunity to receive: • A CAD $5,000 Innovation Fellowship for each of the three winning ventures. • An opportunity to pitch a health focused innovation to a panel of expert judges. • Support to strengthen investment readiness. • Pitch preparation and development opportunities. • Participation in a Building a Winning Pitch Masterclass. • Access to a market research workshop. • Greater visibility for innovative health ventures within the H2i African venture community. • An opportunity to develop practical experience presenting an innovation in a competitive pitch environment. Pitch Competition Six H2i Level 2 ventures will be selected for the Pitch Perfect Africa 2026 competition. Selected ventures will present their innovations during a virtual pitch competition scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026. The presentations will be assessed by a panel of expert judges, with three ventures ultimately receiving Innovation Fellowships worth CAD $5,000 each. The competition is designed to go beyond simply awarding funding. It gives entrepreneurs an opportunity to sharpen their pitch, communicate their innovation more effectively and develop skills that can support future fundraising and investment discussions. Selected participants will also benefit from pitch preparation activities before the final competition. The Building a Winning Pitch Masterclass is scheduled for October 9, 2026. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for Pitch Perfect Africa 2026, applicants must: • Be a current H2i Level 2 HENT venture. • Have been onboarded by their lead mentor by August 31, 2026. • Be developing a health focused innovation. • Be part of the H2i African venture community. • Be at the Discovery stage of H2i’s four level venture development model. • Have not previously won Pitch Perfect Africa. Past finalists who participated in the competition but did not win are welcome to apply again. The requirement to be onboarded as an H2i Level 2 HENT venture by August 31, 2026 is mandatory, and the competition states that there are no exceptions to this requirement. Required Application Information Eligible applicants should prepare the information required to demonstrate that their venture meets the competition requirements. Applicants should be prepared to provide: • Details confirming their current H2i Level 2 HENT venture status. • Information about the health focused innovation being developed. • Information about the venture and its development stage. • A clear explanation of the innovation and the problem it addresses. • Information relevant to the venture’s potential impact and investment readiness. • Any additional information requested through the official Pitch Perfect Africa application platform. Applicants should ensure that all information submitted accurately reflects their current venture status and relationship with H2i. Selection Criteria The programme will select six H2i Level 2 ventures to participate in the pitch competition. The selection and competition process will consider factors connected to: • The health focused nature of the innovation. • The venture’s development stage within the H2i model. • The quality and potential of the proposed innovation. • The ability of the venture to communicate its solution effectively. • The potential for the venture to benefit from pitch and investment readiness support. • The quality of the final pitch presented to the expert judging panel. Three ventures will ultimately receive the CAD $5,000 Innovation Fellowship awards. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for Pitch Perfect Africa 2026. Confirm that your venture is a current H2i Level 2 HENT venture and was onboarded by your lead mentor by August 31, 2026. Prepare information about your health focused innovation, venture and development stage. Visit the official Pitch Perfect Africa application platform. Complete the application form with accurate information about your venture. Submit your application before September 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. If selected as one of the six finalists, participate in the scheduled pitch preparation activities. Prepare for the virtual Pitch Competition on November 16, 2026.
Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition 2026
Applications are now open for the Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition 2026, an opportunity for early stage technology startups in Ontario to showcase innovative solutions to investors, industry leaders, funders and other key ecosystem stakeholders. The competition will take place on October 27, 2026, at the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation. The one day event will bring together researchers, industry leaders, government representatives, funders, investors and innovation partners to explore new solutions, encourage collaboration and support economic growth. As part of the programme, selected startups will participate in an Investor Pitch Showcase where they can present their ventures to a curated audience of investors, small and medium sized enterprises and ecosystem leaders from across Ontario. The competition is particularly suited to founders preparing for pre seed or seed stage funding. It provides an opportunity to increase visibility, receive feedback from experienced investors and ecosystem partners, build valuable connections and demonstrate the potential of an innovative technology based business. About the Competition The Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition is designed to identify and showcase promising technology ventures that are already beyond the ideation stage and are working on novel solutions to important problems. The competition forms part of a broader innovation and growth showcase taking place at the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation. It connects emerging companies with people and organizations that can contribute to their commercial development, investment readiness and long term growth. Participating startups will have the opportunity to present their businesses to a curated group of investors, SMEs and innovation ecosystem leaders. For founders preparing to raise pre seed or seed funding, the pitch showcase can provide valuable exposure at an important stage of business development. Competition Benefits The winner of the investor pitch competition will receive: • A cash prize, with the award amount to be announced. • An opportunity to present at the next Altitude Angels Investment Meeting. • Direct exposure to active angel investors through the investor pitch opportunity. • A complimentary DiscoveryX ticket courtesy of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. • Expert feedback from investors, angel investors and community partners. • Mentorship and guidance to strengthen the business and growth strategy. • An opportunity to explore Labs4 programmes and one on one commercialization consultation. • Personalized pitch feedback and preparation support from the MaRS Investment Accelerator Fund. • Greater visibility among investors, SMEs and innovation ecosystem leaders across Ontario. Eligibility Criteria To be considered for the Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition 2026, startups must: • Operate as a technology based or technology driven business. • Have a new and novel solution addressing an important problem. • Be beyond the ideation stage. • Be operating in Ontario. • Be available to present virtually to the selection committees between September 23 and October 7, 2026. • Submit an application or nomination before the September 15, 2026 deadline. • Ensure that only one representative is available to present during the pitch competition if selected. Required Application Information Applicants should be prepared to provide information that clearly communicates their venture and demonstrates why it is suitable for the Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition. The application should present: • Information about the technology based or technology driven company. • A clear description of the innovative solution. • The important problem the venture is addressing. • Evidence that the company has progressed beyond the ideation stage. • Information demonstrating that the business operates in Ontario. • Details relevant to the company’s growth and investment potential. • Information needed for the selection and pitch process. Selection Criteria The competition is intended for startups that demonstrate meaningful innovation and commercial potential. Applications will be considered based on factors including: • The technology based nature of the solution. • The novelty and innovative character of the proposed solution. • The importance of the problem being addressed. • The company’s progress beyond the ideation stage. • The potential for growth and commercialization. • The suitability of the venture for an investor focused pitch showcase. How to Apply Review the eligibility requirements for the Innovation & Growth Pitch Competition 2026. Confirm that your company is operating in Ontario and has progressed beyond the ideation stage. Prepare information describing your technology based solution and the important problem it addresses. Complete the nomination or application through the official application platform. Submit your application before the September 15, 2026 deadline. If selected, make yourself available for the virtual selection committee presentations between September 23 and October 7, 2026. Prepare for the Investor Pitch Showcase taking place on October 27, 2026, at the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation. Use the pitch preparation and expert feedback opportunities to strengthen your presentation ahead of the competition.
TutorsLinks Educators Impact Challenge 2026
Applications are now open for the TutorsLinks Educators Impact Challenge 2026, a nationwide online competition designed for tutors, teachers and trainers across Nigeria. The challenge provides educators with an opportunity to showcase their teaching abilities, creativity and impact while competing for a share of ₦1,000,000 in cash prizes. Organized by TutorsLinks, the competition focuses on the power of effective teaching and the role educators play in helping learners understand useful concepts. Participants are invited to demonstrate their teaching skills through an original video presentation that explains a useful concept clearly, accurately and engagingly. The challenge is particularly relevant to educators who actively teach or tutor students preparing for examinations such as JAMB and WAEC, as well as those involved in Adult Education and other areas of learning. Applicants are encouraged to use the competition to demonstrate not only subject knowledge but also their ability to communicate ideas in ways that are creative and engaging for learners. The competition is open to eligible tutors, teachers and trainers based in Nigeria. Participants must submit their entries before October 31, 2026. The Grand Finale is scheduled for November 28, 2026. About the Challenge The TutorsLinks Educators Impact Challenge is a nationwide online competition created to recognize educators who demonstrate strong teaching ability and meaningful educational impact. Participants are asked to teach something useful in a video of approximately three minutes. The topic can relate to JAMB, WAEC, Adult Education or another area in which the applicant actively tutors or teaches. The challenge places emphasis on several important qualities of effective education. These include clarity, accuracy, creativity, subject knowledge and learner engagement. Rather than simply presenting information, applicants are expected to show how well they can communicate a concept and help learners understand it. Challenge Benefits Successful participants will have the opportunity to receive: • A share of the ₦1,000,000 total cash prize pool. • ₦100,000 in cash for each of the 10 selected tutors. • Financial support that can contribute to their education impact. • Recognition for teaching quality, creativity and learner engagement. • An opportunity to showcase teaching skills to a wider audience. • Greater visibility for educators who demonstrate effective and innovative teaching. Competition Focus Applicants can create their teaching presentation around an area that they actively teach or tutor. Possible areas include: • JAMB preparation and related subjects. • WAEC preparation and related subjects. • Adult Education. • Other educational subjects or concepts actively taught by the applicant. Entries should focus on a useful concept and demonstrate the applicant’s ability to explain it in a simple, accurate and engaging manner. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the TutorsLinks Educators Impact Challenge 2026, applicants must: • Be a JAMB tutor. • Be a WAEC tutor. • Be an Adult Education tutor. • Be a trainer or teacher based in Nigeria. • Demonstrate strong teaching quality and subject knowledge. • Be able to explain useful concepts clearly and accurately. • Demonstrate creativity in the presentation of the lesson. • Show the ability to engage learners effectively. Applicants should ensure that their submitted presentation is original and reflects their own teaching ability. Required Application Materials Applicants are required to prepare: • An original teaching video. • A useful educational concept that they actively teach or tutor. • A clear explanation of the selected concept. • Accurate subject information demonstrating strong knowledge of the topic. • A presentation that demonstrates creativity and learner engagement. The official challenge describes the entry as a teaching video designed to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to teach something useful in approximately three minutes. Selection Criteria Entries will go through several stages of review before the finalists are selected. The selection process includes: • Profile verification to confirm the applicant’s eligibility. • Video review to assess compliance, originality and quality. • Expert assessment of qualified entries by the competition review or judging team. • Social media voting and public engagement for selected presentations. How to Apply Visit the official TutorsLinks Educators Impact Challenge application page. Review the eligibility requirements and competition guidelines carefully. Choose a useful concept from a subject or area that you actively teach or tutor. Prepare an original teaching presentation that demonstrates your subject knowledge. Record your teaching video, focusing on clarity, accuracy, creativity and learner engagement. Ensure that your submission is original and suitable for the competition. Complete the required application process through the TutorsLinks platform. Submit your entry before the October 31, 2026 deadline.
Science Without Borders Challenge 2027
Applications are open for the Science Without Borders Challenge 2027, an international student art competition organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation. The annual challenge encourages young people to explore important ocean science and conservation issues through creative artwork while raising awareness about the importance of protecting the world’s oceans and aquatic resources. The 2027 competition is open to students from around the world between the ages of 11 and 19 who are enrolled in primary or secondary school, including the equivalent of homeschooling. College and university students are not eligible to participate. The theme for the 2027 competition is “Navigate with Care.” Students are invited to create original artwork that explores how safe and responsible navigation can help protect people, marine life, and ocean environments. The theme is supported by the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation, which is sponsoring the 2027 challenge. About the Challenge The Science Without Borders Challenge is an annual international art contest that uses art as a way to engage students with marine science and conservation. Each year, participants are given a specific ocean related theme and asked to communicate an important environmental message through original artwork. The competition is organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, an organization focused on ocean conservation and education. Through the challenge, students are encouraged to learn about marine environments while developing their creativity and ability to communicate scientific and environmental ideas visually. The 2027 theme, “Navigate with Care,” focuses on responsible navigation and its relationship with the protection of people and marine ecosystems. Students can use their artwork to explore how navigation activities interact with the ocean and why careful, responsible practices are important for marine life and human safety. Challenge Benefits Participants in the Science Without Borders Challenge can benefit from: • Free participation in an international art competition. • The opportunity to learn about ocean science and conservation. • The opportunity to explore the 2027 theme, “Navigate with Care.” • Scholarships of up to US$500 for winning entries. • A US$500 scholarship for the first place winner. • A US$350 scholarship for the second place winner. • A US$200 scholarship for the third place winner. • People’s Choice Awards of US$50 for winners in each age group. • International exposure for selected artwork. • An opportunity to communicate an important ocean conservation message through art. • Opportunities for students to develop creativity and environmental awareness. • Participation in an international educational initiative focused on protecting marine environments. Eligibility Criteria To participate in the Science Without Borders Challenge 2027, applicants must: • Be between 11 and 19 years old. • Be enrolled in primary or secondary school. • Be enrolled in the equivalent of a primary or secondary home schooling programme where applicable. • Be able to create and submit original artwork based on the 2027 theme. • Have a teacher sponsor their artwork. • Provide the required parent or guardian information. • Provide the required teacher information. • Follow all official contest rules and artwork requirements. • Submit artwork that has not previously been entered in another art competition or an earlier Science Without Borders Challenge. Required Artwork and Application Information Participants should prepare: • Original artwork responding to the theme “Navigate with Care.” • A description of the artwork explaining its connection to the competition theme. • Teacher sponsor information. • Parent or guardian contact information where required. • Student information including age and country. • Any required consent documentation. Selection Criteria Entries are evaluated according to the official contest requirements and their relationship to the competition theme. Students should ensure that their artwork: • Clearly relates to the theme “Navigate with Care.” • Demonstrates creativity and originality. • Communicates an understandable ocean conservation or navigation message. • Uses original artwork created specifically for the competition. • Meets the official technical and submission requirements. • Does not contain inappropriate or explicit material. • Does not copy or reproduce another person’s work. Artwork that is unrelated to the theme, plagiarized, or otherwise fails to comply with the official contest rules may be disqualified. How to Apply To participate in the Science Without Borders Challenge 2027: Review the official Science Without Borders Challenge rules and confirm that you meet the age and school enrollment requirements. Study the 2027 theme, “Navigate with Care,” and learn about responsible navigation and its importance to ocean and marine life protection. Develop an original concept that communicates a clear message connected to the theme. Create an original two dimensional artwork using an accepted traditional medium. Prepare a short description explaining your artwork and how it relates to the 2027 theme. Arrange for an eligible teacher to sponsor your artwork. Complete the online submission form with the required student, teacher, and parent or guardian information. Upload your artwork and provide the required description and supporting information. Review the submission carefully and confirm that the artwork complies with all contest rules. Submit your completed entry before March 1, 2027 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.