Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship 2026

The Fellowship Offers

The Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship is a fully-funded 16-week program for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders who uplift and amplify their community’s small business ecosystem in Baltimore, Chicago, and Washington D.C.. Through expert-led training, capital connections, and leadership development, Fellows gain the tools to scale their impact while building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems in their communities.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: January 8, 2026
2. Value / Benefits: Training, mentorship, capital connections, Basecamp workshop leadership, pitch summit
3. Study Level / Type: Fellowship (Entrepreneurship / Small Business)
4. Sponsor: Watson Institute
5. Host Country: United States
6. Eligible Countries: United States

Eligibility Criteria for Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship 2026

1. Small business owner, nonprofit leader, or entrepreneur
2. Must be located in Baltimore, Chicago, or Washington D.C
3. Minimum revenue or budget of $100,000
4. Proven community impact
5. Must commit to 16-week program & weekly sessions
6. 18 years or older

Benefits of Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship 2026

1. Fully funded
2. Business & leadership workshops
3. Mentorship & investor connections
4. Pitch training + Summit
5. Community Basecamp project implementation

How to Apply

1. Submit Your Application: Candidates complete the online application in approximately 30 minutes. Submit by the priority deadline of January 8, 2025, for early consideration. Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.
2. Application Review: Our Admissions Committee evaluates applications to identify innovative entrepreneurs with scalable ventures and strong potential for impact. Early applicants receive priority consideration.
3. Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute Zoom interview to share their entrepreneurial journey, discuss their venture’s vision for growth, and explore how the Fellowship aligns with their goals.
4. Final Selection & Enrollment: Final decisions will be announced by February 2, 2026. Accepted applicants must confirm their enrollment to secure their spot. The program begins on February 25, 2026.

Start Your Application

For more information, view Watson Institute : The Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship

Application Deadline:

January 8, 2026

Application Link(s)

• Apply for Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship 2026