2026 Wild Gift Fellowship for Social Impact Founder

Apply today here: https://www.wildgift.org/apply 

The Wild Gift Fellowship Overview

The 2026 Fellowship begins the week of March 9, 2026, with nine weeks of virtual sessions (2 hours each) leading up to the trek.

The 18-day wilderness trek takes place May 18–June 5, 2026, in Escalante, Utah, with travel days included at both ends.

After the trek, Fellows participate in three monthly virtual sessions (2 hours each), concluding the program in September 2026.
 

The Wild Gift Fellowship Includes:

• 18-day backpacking trek in Escalante, Utah (May 18–June 5, 2026, including travel days)
• Six months of leadership and venture development programming — weekly virtual sessions before the trek (beginning the week of March 9, 2026) and monthly sessions afterward (through September 2026)
• $2,500 stipend to support time away and travel costs
• Personalized 1:1 coaching and mentorship
• A lifelong community of supportive peers and mentors, with opportunities for continued engagement through alumni events and trips

The Ideal Wild Gift Fellow

We’re looking for emerging leaders who are building social or environmental ventures grounded in a clear vision, mission, and measurable impact. Your venture should address a pressing need within a community or ecosystem, creating meaningful and lasting change.

We especially encourage applications from individuals who may not typically have access to wilderness experiences, as well as underrepresented leaders in both entrepreneurship and outdoor spaces. Above all, we seek changemakers who are eager to grow within a like-minded, supportive community of peers who share a commitment to leading with purpose and care for the planet.

What you’ll need to apply:

1. A clear mission, vision, and strategy for your social impact nonprofit or for-profit venture.
2. Your resume.
3. A strong desire to grow as a leader, connect with fellow social impact changemakers, and deepen your connection with the outdoors.
4. Be sure to review all Eligibility and Fellowship Requirements prior to submitting your application.