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O'Shaughnessy Fellowships & Grants

Global

by O'Shaughnessy Ventures

O'Shaughnessy Ventures funds young people doing exceptional work at the intersection of science, technology, and art — with no requirement for a traditional academic path.

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Funding

Up to $100K (Fellowships) / $10K (Grants)

Duration

1 year (Fellowships)

Geography

Global

Eligibility

Open to young people (typically under 25) anywhere in the world who are working on ambitious projects in science, technology, or the arts. No academic degree required.

Application

Annual

Deadline

Varies — typically spring

EntrepreneurshipScience & ResearchCreative ArtsDeep TechAny Field

About This Fellowship

The O'Shaughnessy Fellowships and Grants program, created by Jim O'Shaughnessy through O'Shaughnessy Ventures, supports outstanding young builders, researchers, and creators who are pushing boundaries in science, technology, and the arts. The program offers two tracks: Fellowships of up to $100,000 for ambitious long-term projects, and Grants of $10,000 for earlier-stage work or experiments.

What sets this program apart is its explicit embrace of unconventional paths. Many recipients are self-taught, have dropped out of traditional education, or are pursuing projects that don't fit neatly into any existing institutional category. Jim O'Shaughnessy has been a vocal advocate for supporting young people who learn by building rather than by sitting in classrooms, and the fellowship reflects that philosophy.

Past fellows and grantees have gone on to start companies, publish groundbreaking research, create art installations, and build open-source tools used by thousands. The program also connects recipients with O'Shaughnessy's extensive network in finance, technology, and media.

What You Get

The program provides both financial support and access to O'Shaughnessy Ventures' network and resources.

  • Fellowships provide up to $100,000 in unrestricted funding over one year
  • Grants provide $10,000 for shorter-term or exploratory projects
  • Access to O'Shaughnessy Ventures' advisor network spanning finance, tech, and media
  • Mentorship and guidance from Jim O'Shaughnessy and the OSV team
  • Community of fellow recipients working across disciplines
  • Visibility through OSV's media channels, including the "Infinite Loops" podcast

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by the OSV team with input from domain experts. The program values demonstrated ability and ambition over credentials.

  • Applications open annually, typically in the spring
  • Applicants submit a project description, background, and evidence of prior work
  • Semifinalists may be invited for interviews or asked for additional materials
  • Final decisions are made by the OSV team with input from external reviewers
  • The program especially values applicants who have built things independently

How to Apply

Visit the O'Shaughnessy Ventures website to find the current application cycle. Applications are submitted online and require a description of your project, your background, and links to prior work.

  • Check the OSV website for the current application window
  • Prepare a clear project description with measurable goals
  • Include links to any work you have already completed or shipped
  • Letters of recommendation are welcome but not required
  • Both the Fellowship and Grant tracks use the same application portal

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