The Melton Foundation has officially opened applications for the Global Solvers Accelerator 2026, an international leadership and impact development program for young social entrepreneurs and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) practitioners. The program provides a transformative eight-month journey designed to strengthen leadership capacity, expand the reach of social impact projects, and build lasting global networks.

The deadline for applications is 1 December 2025.

About the Global Solvers Accelerator

The Global Solvers Accelerator is a flagship program of the Melton Foundation, co-sponsored by Ernst Abbe Stiftung, that connects emerging change agents from around the world. It empowers them with practical tools, peer learning, and expert guidance to amplify their community impact.

Launched in 2020, the Accelerator has supported over 70 social impact practitioners from 25 countries, working on projects that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It operates on the principle that real, lasting change begins at the grassroots level — and grows through collaboration, innovation, and leadership.

Over an eight-month virtual journey, followed by an in-person gathering, participants explore key themes in social innovation, sustainability, and impact leadership. Through this model, they build the skills and networks needed to strengthen their initiatives and expand their influence both locally and globally.

Program Structure and Key Features

The Global Solvers Accelerator 2026 blends virtual and in-person learning experiences designed to cultivate leadership and accelerate impact.

Program Duration:

• March to November 2026 (Core Accelerator Phase)

• 10 months total, including eight thematic modules, peer-to-peer learning, and project-based assignments.

In-Person Gathering – The Global Solvers Co-Lab:
A highlight of the program, the Global Solvers Co-Lab will be held in Accra, Ghana, from 19–26 July 2026 (tentative). This fully sponsored week-long event brings together participants, mentors, and experts for intensive collaboration, workshops, and co-creation.

Ongoing Learning and Mentorship:
Participants engage in self-paced online learning, group exchanges, and mentorship from experienced professionals in social innovation and sustainability.

Transition to Lifelong Fellowship:
Upon successful completion, participants are inducted as Senior Melton Fellows, joining a global network of leaders, mentors, and changemakers dedicated to lifelong collaboration and professional development.

Who Can Apply

The program is open to young community development practitioners, social entrepreneurs, and SDG advocates aged 20–35 who:

• Are actively engaged in or leading a social impact project.

• Demonstrate curiosity, commitment, and forward-thinking leadership.

• Have a proven record of community engagement or social innovation.

• Are eager to connect with peers globally and deepen their understanding of sustainable development challenges.

Participants should be ready to commit to the full program duration, engage actively in group activities, and demonstrate a collaborative mindset.

Program Benefits

The Global Solvers Accelerator offers a wide range of benefits that empower participants to advance their leadership and impact:

• Fully Sponsored International Co-Lab: Top participants receive full funding to attend the week-long Co-Lab in Accra, Ghana.

• Global Solvers Awards: Eligible participants can access project funding and infrastructure support through a pooled investment fund supported by participant contributions.

• Leadership and Professional Development: Gain hands-on experience, personalized mentorship, and exposure to international networks.

• Access to the Melton Fellowship: Graduates join the global community of Melton Fellows, gaining lifelong collaboration and learning opportunities.

Application and Selection Timeline

• Application Period: 15 September – 1 December 2025

• Application Review: December 2025 – January 2026

• Virtual Assessment Centre: 31 January 2026

• Onboarding: March 2026

• Accelerator Program: April – November 2026

• Co-Lab (Accra, Ghana): 19–26 July 2026 (tentative)

• Fellowship Induction: December 2026

All applications must be completed in English. Candidates are encouraged to review the official Application Guide before submitting. While AI tools may be used to polish language, AI-generated content will be disqualified, as authenticity and personal insight are highly valued in the selection process.

Click HERE to apply.

Download the program brochure HERE

Interested candidates should visit the official program page at meltonfoundation.org/global-solvers-accelerator to access the application form and guidelines. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to ensure timely review.

Why This Program Matters

The Global Solvers Accelerator is more than a fellowship — it’s a community-driven movement empowering young innovators to turn their ideas into lasting change. By bridging local action with global collaboration, the program continues to cultivate leaders who are reshaping societies, promoting sustainability, and driving equitable progress.

If you are a young changemaker ready to scale your impact, this is your chance to join a global community of visionaries shaping a better future.

Visit HERE for more opportunities.