Bush Foundation 2027 Fellowship

Bush Foundation 2027 Fellowship

The Bush Fellowship is a self-designed leadership program offering up to $150,000 to support individuals with a proven track record of impact. Selected fellows receive two years of funding to develop their leadership capacity through a personalized plan. Open to leaders across sectors—business, government, and nonprofit—this highly competitive program emphasizes character, vision, and problem-solving for large-scale, equitable change. Applications are open for the 2027 cohort, with a deadline of October 6, 2026.

What it offers

• Up to $150,000 for a 2-year self-designed leadership plan (funds cannot support businesses, debt repayment, lobbying, or political contributions).
• Flexibility to reduce work commitments or step away from current roles to pursue a vision.
• Networking with past fellows, community leaders, and reviewers for mentorship and collaboration.
• A mandatory retreat in May 2027 to kick off the fellowship.

Who can apply

Applicants must be leaders who have a track record of impact, demonstrate outstanding character, and have a clear plan for personal leadership growth. Open to all sectors (business, government, nonprofit). No explicit nationality or age restrictions, but applicants must be at a stage where they can commit to the program’s requirements.

What you'll do

• Design a self-directed leadership plan aligned with a vision for equitable, large-scale change.
• Use fellowship funds to reduce work commitments or take time off to execute the plan.
• Engage with community reviewers for feedback and support.
• Attend a retreat in May 2027 to begin the fellowship journey.

How to apply

1. Review eligibility, criteria, and application questions.
2. Submit an application by October 6, 2026 (noon CT).
3. Semifinalists are chosen by December 2026; finalists undergo reference checks and interviews by April 2027.
4. Announced publicly in June 2027.

Good to know

• Not for project completion, business funding, or debt repayment.
• Government officials must use funds in a degree-granting program (IRS restrictions apply).
• No formal education level requirement beyond a demonstrated leadership track record.
• The fellowship is highly competitive (over 1,200 applicants in 2026).