Why Leading Social Entrepreneurs are Critical Today

In a world defined by change, success comes from everyone leading. Social entrepreneurs define the new roadmaps that allow people to thrive in this new environment, while providing solutions and demonstrating the how-tos.

Ashoka engages the world’s largest and most powerful network of social entrepreneurs by searching for and selecting the world’s leading social entrepreneurs: Ashoka Fellows. Ashoka pioneered the field of social entrepreneurship more than 40 years ago, and today it continues to build the largest global network of leading social entrepreneurs.

Ashoka Fellows champion new ideas that transform society’s systems -- providing benefits for everyone and improving the lives of millions of people. Ashoka Fellows are the ultimate role models in today’s world.

Ashoka identifies patterns that are emerging from our Fellows—types of solutions, strategies, topic areas, etc.—that often point to areas ripe for major change. These learnings from across our Fellowship guide Ashoka’s work and investments in strategic initiatives that empower every person to be a changemaker.

Sub Programs

Venture: Selecting our Ashoka Fellows

Ashoka searches the world for leading social entrepreneurs through an intensive, human-centered process, selecting them into our global, trust-based fellowship of peers
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The Ashoka Fellowship

Ashoka Fellows are the world’s leading social entrepreneurs. They champion innovative new ideas that transform society’s systems, providing benefits for everyone and improving the lives of millions of people.
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Some of the Support Fellows will enjoy include:

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A Global Network

Ashoka's Network includes over 4,000 Ashoka Fellows, as well as hundreds of Changemaker Institutions, Partners and Young Changemakers. Collectively, they support the emergence of a world where each person can become a Changemaker.

Empathy

A Life-long Fellowship

Thanks to mentors and courses, among others, the Fellowship reinforces the capacity of Fellows to develop their impact to change the world throughout their life.

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Increased Visibility

The Ashoka Fellowship being one of the first and most prestigious network of social entrepreneurs in the world, upon joining it, Fellows gain credibility and acknowledgment from peers and relevant institutions.

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Financial Support

A tailored stipend for up to three years, if needed, is offered to the Fellow, so that they are able to dedicate themselves full time to the advancement of their idea.