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The Ripple Fellowship
A 9-month fully-funded immersive educational program for young adults ages 18-24
What is The Ripple Fellowship?
The Ripple Fellowship is a fully-funded immersive social entrepreneurship program for young adults, ages 18 – 24. Fellows will… 1. have two domestic travel experiences 2. engage in a weekly online curriculum facilitated by a variety of experts and changemakers 3. be paired with a Mentor, an individual successful in their career and knowledgeable about specific subject areas as it pertains to social entrepreneurship 4. construct a business plan that supports people and planet 5. participate in a formal incentivized business pitch to The Ripple Center community at large
What is social entrepreneurship?
Social entrepreneurship is enacting business practices that account for people and the planet as much as it does profit. Therefore, a social entrepreneur is someone who creates business opportunities that have a positive environmental and human impact locally and/or globally.
What is the length of the Fellowship?
The Fellowship lasts 9 months. It begins August 1, 2024 and runs through mid-April of 2025.
What is the time commitment to be a Fellow?
There will be immersive travel experiences to two different locations in the United States. Fellows should be available to travel August 5 - 10, 2024; and January 10 – 14, 2025. Fellows will be expected to attend weekly virtual sessions lasting between one and two hours (with the exception of holiday breaks). Fellows will also work independently on assignments and their business plan to meet relevant deadlines. Two hours a month is also spent meeting with Mentors. The full Fellowship calendar, including travel, virtual meetings, and the curriculum outline, will be made available to individuals when they are notified about their selection.
How many Fellows will be accepted for the 2024-2025 year?
We will be selecting between 14 - 20 Fellows for the 2024-2025 year.
Who is eligible to apply to The Ripple Fellowship?
This opportunity is available to all permanent residents of the United States ages 18 – 24 that have a desire and a commitment to impacting people and the planet through social entrepreneurship.
Can I apply to the Fellowship if I am attending school?
Absolutely. This opportunity is open to any motivated individuals ages 18 – 24.
Can I apply to the Fellowship if I am not presently attending school?
Absolutely. This opportunity is open to any motivated individuals ages 18 – 24.
Are there any educational requirements?
No, we recognize that impactful entrepreneurs come from all different backgrounds.
What is the application deadline for The Ripple Fellowship?
Applications will be accepted until March 1, 2024.
What qualifications and/or characteristics are you looking for in a fellowship cohort?
During our Admissions process, the committee will work to assemble a cohort of Fellows that are diverse in character, social entrepreneurship qualities, and merit. We are seeking highly motivated and ambitious individuals who work well independently and in a group. Additionally, our cohort will aim to represent the full spectrum of diversity in our country in all demographic categories.
What if I turn 25 during the course of the Fellowship?
As long as you are between the ages of 18 and 24 when the Fellowship begins, you are eligible to apply.
Do I have to create and launch a business as part of the Fellowship?
As the program progresses, each Fellow will create and develop a social impact business plan. Students are expected to pitch their businesses in real time to a panel of judges who will provide feedback and potential funding to top ideas. Fellows have no obligation to launch their business or nonprofit organization at the end of the program but may choose to if they’d like.
Does my business have to be environmentally and/or socially focussed?
Environmental and social impact decisions will guide your business, but that does not have to be the sole focus of the products and/or services you will be developing and creating.
What important dates should I remember?
November 1, 2023 – Applications open March 1, 2024 – Applications close March 11, 2024 – Interviews begin April 8, 2024 – Fellows notified April 15, 2024 – Fellows commit August 1, 2024 – Fellowship begins
Do I need a passport?
Adult passengers 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel for the Ripple Fellowship’s two travel experiences. Any government issued photo ID, according to TSA regulations, is sufficient.
What if I don't have a government issued photo ID?
As long as you can acquire a government issued photo ID by July 31, 2024, you will be able to participate in the travel experiences.
Do I need to be vaccinated for Covid-19 to participate?
If a Fellow intends to particpate in both travel opportunities, then a Covid-19 vaccination is required.
Are there any costs for which I'm responsible during the Fellowship?
No.
Do Fellows receive stipends?
Each Fellows will receive a $1000 stipend to assist them with any financial burdens they may encounter while investing time into their business plans. This stipend can be used however a Fellow chooses.
Are there any materials I will need?
Fellows will need a computer or laptop with a web camera as well as internet access.
Does my involvement and commitment to The Ripple Center end when the fellowship concludes?
Completing the Ripple Fellowship will give you lifelong access to this community. Opportunities include being an Alumni advisor, sitting on future Admissions committees, and having access to our network of Mentors, Facilitators and networking resources.