An exceptional opportunity for grassroots leaders who are transforming their communities is now open! The Mountaintop Emerging Leaders Fellowship (ELF) 2026 is a fully-funded, one-year leadership programme designed for visionary local leaders working in severely under-resourced settings. This prestigious fellowship provides world-class training, mentorship, and a global network—all while you continue your vital work at home. If you are a founder or senior leader of a community-based organisation, this is your chance to accelerate your impact. The application deadline is February 8, 2026.
Mountaintop ELF 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this transformative leadership fellowship:
- Fellowship Organizer: Mountaintop
- Program Type: Fully Funded Leadership Development Fellowship
- Fellowship Duration: 1 Year
- Key Event: 2-week Residential Leadership Institute in Nairobi, Kenya (October 2026)
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Target Group: Founders & Senior Leaders of Nonprofits/CBOs
- Cohort Size: Up to 5 Fellows (joining a broader cohort of 12-14)
- Application Deadline: February 8, 2026
About the Fully Funded Mountaintop Emerging Leaders Fellowship
The Mountaintop Emerging Leaders Fellowship (ELF) is a unique programme built on the understanding that community leaders in under-resourced contexts need support, but cannot afford to step away from their work. Now in its third year, the fellowship is specifically designed for leaders who are already “in the trenches,” driving systemic change.
This is not a theoretical academic course. It is a practical, immersive leadership journey that provides the rare combination of structured reflection, expert mentorship, and peer solidarity. The fellowship empowers leaders to deepen their capacity, refine their projects, and gain global visibility—all while remaining fully engaged in the communities they serve.
Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
This fellowship seeks deeply committed, action-oriented leaders. To be eligible, you must:
- Be the Founder, Co-founder, Executive Director, or a senior leader with primary decision-making responsibility in your organisation.
- Lead a nonprofit or community-based organisation (CBO) that has been operationally active for at least 3 years.
- Your work must focus on serving severely under-resourced communities.
- Be leading a clearly defined project or initiative with specific goals.
- Demonstrate a long-term commitment to leading your organisation and serving your community.
- Be available to attend the fully-funded, two-week Leadership Institute in Nairobi, Kenya, in October 2026.
- Priority is strongly given to women leaders and individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
Note: This fellowship is NOT designed for individuals focused primarily on academic research, political office, or political campaigns.
Comprehensive Fellowship Benefits & Support
Selected Fellows receive an unparalleled package of support designed to catalyse their growth and impact:
- Fully Funded Leadership Institute: All costs for the 2-week residential programme in Nairobi are covered (international flights, visas, accommodation, meals, local transport, activities).
- World-Class Training: A blend of in-person sessions, online courses, and structured reflection delivered with input from experts affiliated with Harvard, MIT, and other leading institutions.
- Expert Coaching & Mentorship: Access to one-on-one coaching and advice from global practitioners, faculty, and leaders, including Nobel Peace Prize Laureates.
- Project Implementation Support: Dedicated guidance to advance your community initiative, plus Catalyst Funds (micro-grants of up to USD $1,000) to support project needs.
- Visibility & Networking: Your work is showcased on Mountaintop’s platforms. You gain lifelong membership in a global community of fellows, alumni, and partners.
What Mountaintop Looks For in a Candidate
Beyond the basic eligibility, the selection committee prioritises leaders who demonstrate:
- A proven track record of taking initiative and delivering results.
- Evidence of learning and adaptability through past challenges.
- A clear, deep understanding of the problem they are solving.
- Openness to reflection, growth, and collaborative peer learning.
- Transformational leadership potential, including systems thinking and long-term dedication.
How to Apply for the Mountaintop ELF (Step-by-Step)
The application process is designed to be clear and accessible:
- Start with the Eligibility Test: Begin your journey on the official website by taking a short interest form and eligibility test.
- Submit a Full Application: If you meet the criteria, you will be invited to complete a detailed application.
- Use Provided Resources: Mountaintop offers an Application Guide, Timeline Map, and disability accommodation information to support you.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Your application should powerfully convey your leadership journey, your project’s impact, and your growth mindset.
🔥 Pro Tip: Your application must go beyond describing your work. Articulate your personal leadership philosophy, how you have navigated significant constraints, and your vision for how this fellowship will specifically help you and your community reach the next level.
Application Deadline
The window to apply for this life-changing opportunity is very short:
📅 February 8, 2026.
Official Website & Contact
For complete details, eligibility resources, and to start your application, visit the official website. For specific questions, you can contact the team directly.
- Email:
info@mountaintop.international - Application Portal: Take the eligibility test on the official site.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL MOUNTAINTOP ELF WEBSITE AND BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I have to leave my job and community to participate?
A: Absolutely not. This fellowship’s core design principle is to support leaders without requiring them to step away from their work. The only required absence is the 2-week Leadership Institute in Nairobi in October 2026.
Q2: Is the fellowship really fully funded?
A: Yes. All major costs associated with the fellowship are covered, including international travel to Kenya, visas, accommodation, meals, and all programme activities for the institute. Fellows also receive a project micro-grant.
Q3: My organisation is very small. Can I still apply?
A: Yes. The fellowship seeks impact, not organisational size. What matters is that your organisation has been operationally active for at least 3 years and that you, as a leader, have primary decision-making responsibility and a clear project.
Q4: What is the time commitment during the fellowship year?
A: The programme blends a 2-week in-person institute with online courses, coaching calls, and peer sessions scheduled throughout the year. You are expected to commit to these while managing your full-time work.
Q5: How competitive is the selection?
A: The fellowship is highly competitive, with only up to 5 fellows selected for the 2026 ELF cohort. Selection is based on a holistic review of your eligibility, leadership demonstration, and alignment with the programme’s values.
Need Help? Reflecting on your leadership journey for the application? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Don’t Miss Out: Share this fully-funded leadership opportunity with the incredible community-based changemakers in your network!
