Founders Fellowship

Program Type: Membership fellowship (not a direct grant to nonprofits)

Target Audience: Young women ages 25-35 interested in philanthropy

Program Overview

The Founders Fellowship is an innovative program designed to encourage young women to learn about philanthropy and critical issues affecting the Philadelphia region, and to participate in collective giving grantmaking. The program is in its 4th annual application cycle as of the content date.

Key Benefit: Fellowship members receive membership in IMPACT100 without paying the annual membership fee.

Preference: Given to applicants who do not have the resources to independently join IMPACT100.

Eligibility

• Women ages 25-35
• Interested in addressing vital needs of community through collective giving
• Will bring diverse perspective to IMPACT100's process
• Selected through competitive application process

Fellowship Opportunities & Benefits

• Evaluate grant proposals and participate in awarding grants
• Attend education programs with top-notch speakers
• Collaborate with other Fellows to develop the program
• Network and mentorship with diverse group of IMPACT100 members
• Full membership in IMPACT100 without membership fee
• Leadership development in philanthropy

Organization Background

Established: 2008 (Founders Fellowship began 4 years prior to 2017 announcement, so approximately 2013)
Mission: Engage women in philanthropy and collectively fund high-impact grants to nonprofits in the Philadelphia region

Application Process

1. Obtain Application Materials
   • Founders Fellowship Program Description PDF
   • Founders Fellowship Application Form
   • Both available on IMPACT100 website
2. Complete Application
   • Fill out application form with required information
   • Must meet age and eligibility requirements (women ages 25-35)
3. Submit Electronically
   • Completed applications submitted electronically
   • Email to: foundersfellowship@impact100philly.org

Application Requirements

• Application form completion
• Demonstration of interest in philanthropy and addressing community needs
• Evidence of diverse perspective
• Information about financial ability to join IMPACT100 (preference given to those without resources to independently join)

Timeline (Based on 2017 cycle)

• Deadline: July 30, 2017 (historical; current deadline unknown)

Contact for Questions

Email: foundersfellowship@impact100philly.org

Notes

• Competitive selection process
• Applications reviewed by program co-chairs (Ellan Rubin Bernstein and Joanne Levy as of 2017)