The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program is now accepting applications for its upcoming cycle. Launched in 2015, YLAI aims to fortify entrepreneurial ideas and support economic development in communities by providing fellows from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada with leadership and entrepreneurial experience through fellowships in the United States.
The program includes a four-week professional placement, enabling participants to develop skills at U.S. entrepreneurial organizations. They will collaborate on an Entrepreneurial Leadership Action Plan to implement in their home countries. The curriculum, developed by IREX and Arizona State University, provides both online and in-person coursework, combining technical entrepreneurship training with leadership development.
Upon arrival in the U.S., fellows will participate in an orientation event and conclude their stay in Washington, D.C., for the YLAI Closing Forum, networking with entrepreneurial leaders and government representatives. Continued engagement after the fellowship allows participants to maintain ties with U.S. partners and further professional development.
The U.S. government covers all costs associated with the fellowship, including visa support, travel, and accommodation. Eligibility criteria include being aged 25 to 35, a resident and citizen of one of the participating countries, a proven business track record of at least two years, and proficiency in English.
Applicants will undergo a merit-based selection process, with semifinalists invited for interviews. The application deadline is May 15, 2025, with notifications on selection status provided by August 2025. This program represents an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to expand their skills and contribute to economic growth in their communities.