The Shuttleworth Foundation offers fellowships to individuals to implement their innovative idea for social change. We are most interested in exceptional ideas at the intersection between technology, knowledge and learning, with openness being the key requirement.
There are no right or wrong answers. The Foundation funds people from all over the world regardless of gender, age, nationality or experience. We are looking for a complete picture of you and your idea.
How to apply
- Please register here to complete the online application form
- No applications will be accepted via post.
- No hard copy applications will be accepted.
- No application will be accepted via online file sharing services.
- No partial applications will be considered.
- A full application comprises of:
- the completed (and submitted) application form
- your application video
- your resume
Where is the fellowship based
Fellows work from where they are, with an open door to visit the Foundation’s head office in Cape Town, South Africa.
What are the conditions
Openness is the Foundation’s key experiment in the world and is therefore a non-negotiable requirement.
Fellows are expected to commit 100% of their time to the focus area selected for their fellowship. The fellowship aims to free up the time and attention of the Fellow to pursue their ideas in this area. The Fellow must submit any outside work, volunteer or otherwise, they may want to conduct whilst on a Foundation Fellowship to the Foundation for approval.
Fellows are required to attend the bi-annual Fellows gatherings.
Fellows are asked to live out loud by communicating openly and actively on their ideas, projects and strategies.
The fellowship must be taken up on 1 March or 1 September.
If the Fellow’s idea is implemented through a for profit entity, the Foundation will require an equity stake in that entity. The percentage stake is based on the proportion of Foundation funding to other funding received.
If the Fellow’s idea is implemented through a non-profit entity, the Foundation will require a seat on the board.
How are the Fellows selected
Fellowship applications are reviewed by the Shuttleworth Foundation management team and advisors. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews. The Foundation reserves the right not to award a fellowship if the submission does not meet the requirements.
Application timing
- Applications for the 1 September fellowship intake close 1 May.
- Applications for the 1 March fellowship intake close 1 November.
- Applications are accepted throughout the year.
If you have specific questions about this process, or you would like to apply, please email:
