The Truist Foundation Fellowship, administered by the Watson Institute, is a fully-funded program aimed at empowering Georgia-based entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders. This Fellowship focuses on enhancing participants' leadership skills, technical training, and financial literacy while helping them scale their ventures and amplify their community impact. Specifically designed for individuals operating in underserved and underbanked communities, the Fellowship emphasizes job creation and economic development throughout rural and urban Georgia.

The program runs from February 2 to June 12, 2025, offering weekly virtual workshops on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM ET. Fellows will also participate in a one-day immersive event in Atlanta on February 8, 2025, and conclude the program with a Summit event on June 12, 2025. During the 16-week period, participants will explore topics such as product-market fit, data metrics, team management, and pitching strategies while also hosting a community-centered “Basecamp” workshop to showcase their ventures and engage with local stakeholders.

Eligibility is open to entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders with 1-5 years of traction, demonstrated community impact, and revenue-generating ventures. Ideal candidates should be at the “Problem-Solution Fit” or “Product-Market Fit” stages, seeking resources to scale their work. Participants must be fully committed to the 16-week program and its components, including the immersive event, Basecamp, and ongoing sessions. Fellows will receive a Community Development Stipend to support their local engagement initiatives, along with a roadmap for growth provided by Watson Institute mentors and staff.

Applications are due by January 3, 2025, with rolling reviews thereafter until spots are filled. The application process includes an online submission, a 20-minute Zoom interview for shortlisted candidates, and final approval by an admissions committee. Notifications of acceptance will be sent no later than January 24, 2025. The Fellowship equips participants with robust tools and networks, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mentorship in driving sustainable change.

Through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and a culminating pitch event, the Truist Foundation Fellowship enables participants to scale their ventures and deepen their impact in Georgia's communities. It provides an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to grow their work while fostering local economic development. Interested individuals can apply via the Watson Institute website.