AV Fellowship

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today.

Actively Seeking Change-makers

Since our inception in 2014, Access Ventures has been lifting up transformational leaders who challenge the status quo. Our fundamental belief is that at the heart of any change in a community, company, market or movement…are people.

Through our Fellowship program, we find innovators working to make the world better in a big way, and we help them become impactful leaders by connecting them with the tools, resources, and community they need to bring their ideas to life.

What we’re looking for…

The Access Ventures Fellowship empowers young leaders (ages 22-30) who are dedicated to creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond. By providing resources, a supportive community, and a stipend, the fellowship enables these leaders to explore ideas that champion human flourishing, particularly for those facing systemic challenges.

At the heart of this mission lies a vision inspired by St. Augustine’s concept of flourishing—beatitudo—a deeper form of happiness and fulfillment achieved by aligning one’s life with purpose. Augustine taught that true flourishing requires a commitment to justice, love, and community, themes that resonate with Access Ventures’ dedication to advancing human dignity. This fellowship cultivates leaders who confront structural barriers and craft solutions that honor the inherent worth of every individual.

More than a pathway to economic success, the AV Fellowship encourages a holistic approach to well-being, nurturing Fellows to contribute not only to their own growth but also to the common good. Through this lens, participants are empowered to build a more just and compassionate society, where flourishing extends beyond self to embrace the needs and dignity of all.

Participants Receive

  • Personal Development

    Personal Development

    A comprehensive program to build and grow leadership skills and develop the strategies needed to make ideas thrive.

  • Expert Resources

    Connections to industry experts and facilitation of opportunities according to each Fellow’s needs.

  • Funding

    A $20,000 stipend, spread over 12 months, to allow Fellows to explore their idea and acquire resources to ensure the greatest outcome.

  • Connection

    Virtual and in-person gatherings with the cohort and industry leaders to nurture development.

Selection & Requirements

Applications are accepted annually until January 31

Selection

Applicants will be asked to submit a letter of recommendation, CV, and an abstract for the project the Fellow wishes to explore that is related to human flourishing (this can be in any field, from finance to science to the arts).

Applications for the 2025 AV Fellowship are now closed.

Our fellowship runs on a rolling application basis, so you are welcome to submit an application at any time. However, any applications submitted after January 31, 2025, will be considered for the 2026 cohort.

Applicants for the 2025 cohort will be notified of acceptance by March 22, 2025, and the new cohort will begin in July 2025, running for the next 12 months.

AV Fellowship FAQs

  • We are looking for individuals ideally who have graduated university and have begun work in their career.

  • Demonstrates the ability to navigate professional and personal challenges. Fellows should have encountered and learned from setbacks, showing perseverance in pursuing their goals.

  • A proven history of initiating projects or ventures. The ideal candidate is proactive and takes ownership of ideas, consistently working to bring them to life.

  • Eager to contribute fully to the fellowship experience.

    Fellows should be willing to engage authentically with their cohort and the program, fostering an environment of growth through vulnerability, kindness, and collaboration.

  • A deep interest in exploring an area or project aimed at improving the well-being of others. Whether the idea revolves around the arts, finance, social innovation, or any other field, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to advancing human dignity and flourishing.

  • Willingness to commit fully to the fellowship, attending all virtual and in-person gatherings, workshops, and discussions. The ability to manage the time commitment is crucial, as consistent participation is vital to the success of the program and the cohort.

  • Fellows should not only benefit from the fellowship but also be committed to paying it forward. The ideal candidate will consider how to carry the program's spirit into their future endeavors and communities, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the fellowship year.

  • We may expand to international applicants in the future but we are not able to fully support them at this time.

Requirements