Bush Fellowship program
The Bush Fellowship supports individuals in Minnesota, the Dakotas, and Native nations to pursue self-designed plans that expand their leadership capacity for large-scale, equitable community change.
Funder: Bush Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $150,000 per Fellow for a self-designed leadership plan; Fellowship duration is up to 2 years.
Summary: Supports individuals to significantly expand their leadership capacity through self-designed development plans aimed at large-scale, equitable change.
Key Information: Highly competitive; open to leaders from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations in the region.
Description
The Bush Fellowship program empowers individuals to invest in their own growth as leaders by providing significant funding, flexibility, and time to implement a self-designed leadership development plan. The program seeks applicants who have demonstrated impact, outstanding character, and a clear vision for large-scale, equitable change within Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, or one of the 23 Native nations in the region. Fellows may use the award to pursue advanced education, learn from other leaders, or take other ambitious steps to transform their leadership abilities. The overarching goal is to cultivate leaders who are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful, lasting change in their communities and beyond.
