Acumen Fellowship

​The Acumen Fellowship is a leadership development program aimed at cultivating a global community of social change leaders dedicated to addressing poverty and injustice. Established in 2008, the fellowship offers region-specific programs—including those in India, Pakistan, East Africa, and West Africa—to equip participants with the skills and networks needed to drive systemic change. ​To be eligible for the Acumen Fellowship, applicants must have a minimum of five years of full-time work experience, ideally in roles that demonstrate leadership and strategic impact. They should have a proven commitment to social change, with at least three years of experience in addressing poverty and injustice. Ideal candidates are those who have held or currently hold senior decision-making positions within organizations focused on social impact. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with the program typically attracting individuals between 25 and 45 years old. Additionally, fellows should be able to dedicate 4–6 hours per week to the program's activities while balancing their professional responsibilities.