AS

Ashoka Fellowship

Global

by Ashoka

A lifetime membership in the world's largest network of social entrepreneurs, with a living stipend to pursue systems-changing work.

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Funding

Living stipend for up to 3 years

Duration

3 years

Geography

Global

Eligibility

Nomination-based only — candidates cannot self-apply. Must demonstrate a new idea for systems-level social change, entrepreneurial track record, and strong ethical character. Typically mid-career leaders who have already proven their concept.

Application

Rolling (nomination-based)

Social ImpactLeadershipEntrepreneurship

About This Fellowship

The Ashoka Fellowship is widely regarded as the most prestigious recognition for social entrepreneurs globally. Founded in 1981 by Bill Drayton, Ashoka has elected over 3,800 Fellows in 95 countries, creating the world's largest network of leading social entrepreneurs. Unlike most fellowships, Ashoka is a lifetime designation — once elected, a Fellow remains part of the network permanently.

Ashoka Fellows receive a living stipend for up to three years, allowing them to focus full-time on their social venture during a critical growth phase. But the real value lies in the network: Fellows gain access to peer collaboration, co-creation opportunities, and the collective influence of thousands of systems-change leaders worldwide.

The selection process is unusually rigorous and entirely nomination-based. Candidates cannot apply directly — they must be identified and nominated by Ashoka representatives or existing Fellows. The multi-stage vetting process evaluates five core criteria: a new idea, creativity, entrepreneurial quality, social impact, and ethical fiber.

What You Get

Ashoka provides both financial support and lifelong membership in the world's most influential social entrepreneur network.

  • A living stipend for up to 3 years, calibrated to the Fellow's country and cost of living
  • Lifetime membership in the Ashoka Fellow network spanning 95+ countries
  • Access to pro bono professional services from McKinsey, Latham & Watkins, and other partners
  • Collaboration opportunities with other Fellows through Ashoka's "Collaborative Entrepreneurship" initiatives
  • Global media visibility and storytelling support to amplify impact
  • Invitations to regional and global convenings bringing together the full Fellow community
  • Connection to Ashoka's broader ecosystem including Ashoka Young Changemakers and Changemaker Schools

Selection Process

Ashoka's selection process is one of the most thorough in the social sector, involving multiple stages of evaluation by staff, existing Fellows, and independent panelists.

  • Candidates are identified through nominations by Ashoka staff, existing Fellows, or partner organizations — no self-applications
  • Initial screening by Ashoka country representatives to assess alignment with the five selection criteria
  • In-depth interview and site visit by an Ashoka representative, often spanning multiple days
  • Second opinion from a senior Ashoka leader in a different region
  • Final panel review by a diverse group of existing Ashoka Fellows and independent experts
  • The entire process can take 6-12 months from nomination to election
  • Five criteria evaluated: new idea, creativity, entrepreneurial quality, social impact of the idea, and ethical fiber

Impact and Legacy

Ashoka Fellows have collectively transformed systems across every major social issue area. The fellowship's influence extends far beyond individual ventures.

  • Over 3,800 Fellows elected since 1981 across 95 countries
  • Fellows have changed policy in their respective fields at a rate 10x higher than typical NGO leaders
  • More than 80% of Fellows have changed a system at the national level within 10 years of election
  • Notable Fellows include Jimmy Wales (Wikipedia), Wendy Kopp (Teach For All), and Muhammad Yunus (Grameen Bank)
  • Ashoka Fellows' organizations collectively reach hundreds of millions of people annually

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