The Truist Foundation Fellowship 2027, powered by the Watson Institute at Lynn University, is a prestigious and fully funded entrepreneurship and leadership fellowship in the United States. This highly competitive program is designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit founders who are working to support underbanked and underserved communities across the USA.

The fellowship runs for 16 weeks (March to June) and combines intensive business training, expert mentorship, access to investor networks, and long-term alumni support. Its primary goal is to help founders scale sustainable ventures and strengthen local economies.

Program Overview

• Program Type: Fully Funded Entrepreneurship and Leadership Fellowship

• Location: United States

• Duration: 16 weeks

• Program Dates: March 4 – June 19

• Immersive Component: March 4–12 (mandatory, in-person)

• Weekly Schedule: Tuesday to Thursday

• Time Commitment: Approximately 8–10 hours per week

Who Can Apply

The Truist Foundation Fellowship is open to:

• Small business owners

• Entrepreneurs

• Nonprofit founders

• Community-focused venture leaders

Both international and domestic applicants are eligible, provided they are legally working and creating impact within the United States.

Program Focus Areas

The fellowship focuses on strengthening ventures that contribute to inclusive economic growth, with emphasis on:

• Small business growth and long-term sustainability

• Financial literacy and business acumen

• Leadership development

• Community and economic impact

• Support for underbanked and underserved populations

Fellowship Benefits

The Truist Foundation Fellowship offers a comprehensive support package at no cost to participants:

Business and Leadership Training

• Expert-led workshops on entrepreneurship, finance, operations, and leadership

• Practical, real-world learning from experienced founders and investors

Mentorship and Capital Connections

• One-on-one mentorship from the Watson Institute’s expert network

• Introductions to investors, funders, and strategic partners

Community Impact Basecamps

• Design and lead a 1–3 day workshop for early-stage entrepreneurs

• Receive training and a stipend to strengthen local entrepreneurial ecosystems

Pitch Training and In-Person Summit

• Structured pitch development and storytelling support

• Opportunity to present ventures at a live summit attended by investors and community leaders

Long-Term Alumni Support

• Lifetime access to the Watson Institute alumni network

• Continued mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply.

Eligible Locations

Applicants must be based in and actively creating impact in one of the following U.S. regions:

• Southeast: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee

• Mid-Atlantic: Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia

• Northeast: New Jersey, Pennsylvania

• South Central: Texas, Ohio

• Midwest: Indiana

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Truist Foundation Fellowship 2027, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a small business owner, entrepreneur, or nonprofit leader

• Operate a business or organization active for 1–5 years

• Employ fewer than 10 people

• Demonstrate measurable traction, including customers and social or economic impact

• Have secured some form of funding (revenue, grants, investments, or donations)

• Commit fully to participating in the 16-week program

• Actively serve underbanked or underserved communities

Application Procedure

Online Application

• Takes approximately 30 minutes to complete

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis

Application Review

• Evaluated by the Watson Institute Admissions Committee

• Early applications receive priority consideration

Interview

• Shortlisted candidates are invited to a 20-minute Zoom interview

Final Selection

• Final decisions announced by February 9

• Program officially begins on March 4

Key Dates

• Priority Application Deadline: January 12

• Final Decisions Announced: February 9

• Program Start Date: March 4

• Summit: June

Dates may vary. Applicants are advised to consult the official website for updates.

Impact of the Truist Foundation Fellowship

Since its launch in 2021, the Truist Foundation Fellowship has supported more than 2,400 entrepreneurs, resulting in:

• 433 jobs created

• $11.5 million raised in capital

• Strengthened small businesses and local economies across the United States

About the Truist Foundation and Watson Institute

The Truist Foundation is an independent private foundation dedicated to advancing economic mobility through:

• Career pathway development

• Small business strengthening

• Disaster preparedness, relief, and recovery

The Watson Institute specializes in fellowship-based education for social impact leaders, offering experiential learning, expert mentorship, and access to global networks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Truist Foundation Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship is fully funded, and participants are not required to pay any program fees.

Can international applicants apply for this fellowship?
Yes, applicants of all nationalities may apply if they are legally working and creating impact in eligible U.S. regions.

Is this fellowship open to nonprofit founders?
Yes, nonprofit founders who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.

How competitive is the Truist Foundation Fellowship?
The program is highly competitive and selects applicants based on impact, traction, leadership potential, and commitment.

Is in-person attendance mandatory?
Yes, the immersive in-person component from March 4–12 is mandatory for all selected fellows.