Discover the SparkUp Initiative Fellowship 2025, a global capacity-building program empowering women-led organizations with fundraising skills, mentorship, and strategic development. Learn eligibility, structure, benefits, how to apply, and deadlines.

SparkUp Initiative Fellowship 2025: Capacity-Building Program for Women-Led Organizations

The SparkUp Initiative Fellowship 2025 is a global capacity-building program designed to strengthen women-led organizations by equipping them with the skills, tools, and strategic knowledge needed to thrive in fundraising. Through this fellowship, women leaders gain access to practical training, mentorship, and a collaborative community that supports the growth and sustainability of their organizations. The SparkUp Initiative Fellowship empowers participants across sectors including education, health, gender equality, environmental justice, economic empowerment, advocacy, and indigenous rights.

This program is tailored for women leaders aiming to refine their fundraising strategy, access international funding, and strengthen long-term impact. It reflects a growing need for equitable access to global fundraising opportunities, especially for grassroots and women-led organizations in developing regions.

Program Overview

The SparkUp Initiative Fellowship provides women leaders with:

• Training on how to design a strong, strategic fundraising plan

• Guidance to build and refine impactful projects and funding proposals

• Practical skills in grant writing for international foundations and public institutions

• Exposure to innovative methods such as crowdfunding and digital fundraising

• One-on-one mentorship with fundraising experts

• A peer-learning environment to share experiences and challenges

• Entry into a supportive global community of women leaders

This fellowship is ideal for organizations ready to strengthen their fundraising capacity and expand their access to global funding ecosystems.

Eligibility Criteria

The SparkUp Initiative Fellowship is open to:

• Women-led NGOs or grassroots organizations based in Asia, Africa, and smaller European countries

• Organizations from any sector or thematic area

• Both emerging and established organizations

Applicants must hold a leadership role within their organization and demonstrate readiness to engage in capacity-building. This means they should actively influence decision-making processes, guide strategic direction, and play a central part in shaping the organisation’s growth. Readiness for capacity-building also implies a willingness to reflect on existing practices, identify areas for improvement, and commit time and effort to strengthening fundraising systems and leadership skills. Ideal candidates are those motivated to enhance their organisation’s long-term sustainability and expand its impact.

Fellowship Structure

• Duration: 2 months

• Format:

  • Online group sessions

  • One-on-one mentorship

  • Peer learning and collaborative exchange

This structure ensures flexibility while providing deep, high-quality learning led by international fundraising experts. By combining interactive group sessions with personalised one-on-one mentorship, participants have the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and receive tailored guidance that addresses their organisation’s specific needs. The peer-learning component further enriches the experience by allowing fellows to exchange ideas, challenges, and best practices with women leaders from different regions and sectors. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of community, mutual support, and shared purpose, helping participants strengthen both their professional networks and fundraising confidence. Ultimately, the structure is designed to empower women-led organisations to build long-term, sustainable fundraising strategies that enhance their global impact.

Application Requirements

To apply for the SparkUp Initiative Fellowship, applicants must submit:

• Completed application form

• One-page concept note describing a project or fundraising idea

• Updated CV

• Signed letter confirming the applicant holds a leadership role

Application Deadline

20 December 2025

Apply Here

Submit your application via the official SparkUp Initiative Fellowship page

For more information about the programme, its mission, and updates on future cycles, applicants are encouraged to explore the official website of the SparkUp Initiative at https://sparkupinitiative.org. The platform provides detailed guidance, testimonials from past fellows, and additional resources that can support women-led organisations in strengthening their fundraising capacity.

Those seeking further opportunities for global professional development can also visit https://fundsdigest.com/, a comprehensive hub featuring international fellowships, grants, training programmes, and capacity-building initiatives designed to empower emerging leaders and organisations worldwide.

Final Call to Action

For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth:
https://fundsdigest.com/