[Bush Foundation](https://www.bushfoundation.org)

October 2026

Up to $150,000 per Fellow | Up to 30 Fellowships awarded annually | Duration: up to 2 years

Supports self-driven leaders with a track record of impact to design and pursue individualized leadership growth plans for large-scale, equitable change.

Highly competitive; open to leaders from any sector in MN, ND, SD, and 23 Native nations in the region.

--- ## Description The Bush Fellowship program empowers individuals with a proven record of leadership and impact to invest in their own development as leaders. Fellows design their own growth plans—whether through advanced education, learning from other leaders, or dedicated time for transformative leadership work—with the goal of creating large-scale, equitable change in their communities. The Fellowship is intended for those who think expansively about their leadership journey and are poised to make a significant difference in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations within this geography. Up to 30 Fellows are selected each year through a rigorous process that includes application review, references, and interviews. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026: Full application deadline — applications close at noon Central Time (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each Fellow may receive up to $150,000 to support their self-designed leadership plan. - Up to 30 Fellowships are awarded annually. - Fellowship duration is up to 2 years. --- ## Eligibility - Open to individuals from any sector (business, nonprofit, government, etc.). - Applicants must demonstrate: - A strong track record of impact and problem-solving. - Outstanding character, integrity, and commitment to inclusive and equitable leadership. - A bold vision for large-scale, equitable change in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, or the 23 Native nations in this geography. - A clear, self-designed plan for leadership growth. - Additional limitations: - Not for funding projects, businesses, or debt repayment. - Funds cannot be directed to another person or organization. - For government and elected officials: Fellowship funds may only be used in a degree-granting program (see [IRS guidance](https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/private-foundations/exceptions-self-dealing-by-private-foundations-certain-payments-to-government-officials) for details). --- ## Application Process 1. **Prepare Application:** - Review [application questions and criteria](https://www.bushfoundation.org/bush-fellowship-application-questions-criteria/). - Gather references: one person who has led you and one person you have led (at least one must reside in the region). - Prepare a resume. 2. **Submit Application:** - Complete the online application form (new applications required each year). - Respond to essay or video/audio prompts about your leadership journey, impact, vision, and growth plan. 3. **Selection Process:** - Alumni and community leaders review applications and select semifinalists. - Semifinalists provide references for phone interviews. - Finalists participate in in-person interviews with community reviewers. - New Fellows are selected and announced. --- ## Additional Information - The Fellowship is not suitable for those seeking funding for a business, project, or sabbatical focused solely on rest/wellness. - The program is highly competitive, with approximately 1,000 applications per year. - The application process itself is designed to be a valuable reflective experience for applicants. - Legal history (criminal convictions, lawsuits, etc.) does not automatically disqualify applicants. --- ## External Links - [Bush Fellowship Program Overview](https://www.bushfoundation.org/opportunities/bush-fellowship) - [Application Questions & Criteria](https://www.bushfoundation.org/bush-fellowship-application-questions-criteria/) - [Leadership Reflection Guide (PDF)](https://www.bushfoundation.org/app/uploads/2025/09/2025-Leadership-Workbook-digital-fillable.pdf) - [Bush Foundation – Contact Page](https://www.bushfoundation.org/contact-us) - [Exceptions: Self-dealing by Private Foundations (IRS)](https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/private-foundations/exceptions-self-dealing-by-private-foundations-certain-payments-to-government-officials) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |--------------------------|------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | staff@bushfoundation.org
651-379-2249 | | Online Contact Form | [Contact Bush Foundation](https://www.bushfoundation.org/contact-us) | ---

Bush Fellowship program

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