The ACT Fellowship 2026-27 is a prestigious, fully funded fellowship designed for passionate professionals who want to create meaningful social impact in India. Offered by ACT (Action for Change Together), the fellowship provides participants with hands-on experience in venture philanthropy, impact investing, nonprofit strategy, research, and portfolio management.
During this nine-month full-time program, fellows collaborate with ACT’s investment team and support organizations solving some of India’s biggest challenges in education, healthcare, climate action, and gender inclusivity. Besides gaining real-world exposure, fellows receive a competitive monthly stipend and mentorship from experienced leaders in the social impact ecosystem.
About ACT Fellowship
The ACT Fellowship is an apprenticeship-style learning program where selected fellows work directly with the ACT team across different stages of philanthropic investments. Fellows contribute to sector research, startup evaluation, due diligence, impact measurement, strategic partnerships, and portfolio support.
Instead of classroom learning, participants gain practical experience by working alongside professionals who fund and support high-impact organizations across India. The fellowship is ideal for individuals who aspire to build careers in social impact, philanthropy, public policy, consulting, research, or impact investing.
Last Date to Apply
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive several professional and financial benefits, including:
- Monthly stipend of ₹60,000
- Practical exposure to venture philanthropy and impact investing
- Opportunity to work with experienced investment professionals
- Hands-on experience in research and due diligence
- Exposure to nonprofit leadership and social innovation
- Networking opportunities with founders, investors, and sector experts
- Mentorship from ACT leadership
- Experience letter after successful completion
- Strong career foundation in the development and social impact sector
Impact Areas
During the fellowship, participants may work across the following sectors:
- Education Technology (EdTech)
- Public Healthcare
- Climate Action
- Gender Inclusivity
Depending on organizational requirements, fellows may also contribute to projects beyond these focus areas.
Roles and Responsibilities
Fellows actively participate in multiple strategic functions, such as:
- Conducting sector and market research
- Identifying promising nonprofit organizations and startups
- Supporting due diligence activities
- Preparing investment recommendations
- Managing portfolio organizations
- Measuring social impact
- Coordinating partnerships and industry collaborations
- Supporting grant-making initiatives
- Participating in ecosystem events and programs
Eligibility Criteria
The ACT Fellowship welcomes ambitious and intellectually curious professionals who are passionate about solving real-world challenges.
Applicants should ideally:
- Be early to mid-career professionals
- Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Have excellent communication abilities
- Be comfortable working independently and within teams
- Show genuine interest in social impact and innovation
- Be willing to relocate to Bengaluru or Mumbai if required
- Possess an entrepreneurial mindset and eagerness to learn
Fellowship Duration
The ACT Fellowship runs for 9 months on a full-time basis.
Participants work approximately 40 hours per week, gaining practical experience through live projects and close collaboration with ACT’s investment teams
Fellowship Location
The fellowship is conducted in:
- Bengaluru
- Mumbai
Applicants should be based in or willing to relocate to one of these cities during the fellowship period.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of multiple stages:
Step 1: Online Application
Submit the online application form along with the required details.
Step 2: Shortlisting
The ACT team reviews applications based on skills, experience, and motivation.
Step 3: Virtual Case Interview
Shortlisted candidates participate in a case-based assessment.
Step 4: Leadership Interview
Successful candidates attend an in-person interview with ACT leadership.
Step 5: Reference Check
Selected applicants undergo reference verification.
Step 6: Fellowship Allocation
Candidates are matched with suitable ACT focus areas based on their profile and organizational needs. Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
Required Documents
Applicants should keep the following documents ready before applying:
- Updated Resume (PDF)
- LinkedIn Profile
- Portfolio (if applicable)
- Educational Details
- Work Experience Information
- Contact Details
- Statement of Interest
- Any additional supporting documents requested during the application process
Official Website:
https://actgrants.in/act-fellowship-program/
Last Date to Apply
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026