2026 BuildPalestine Root Fellowship Program Application
Applications are now open for the 2026 Root Program!
We are proud to announce the application launch of Root, a program of the BuildPalestine Fellowship.
Root is our signature 6-month program where we work with early-stage Palestinian social enterprises with an existing product/service that has a social and/or environmental impact in Palestine and are in the phase of refining their business models and expanding their teams.
Through a structured curriculum consisting of live workshops, one-on-one coaching, and a demo pitching day, we provide mentorship, resources, and access to a resourceful network to help entrepreneurs realize their vision.
What is A Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a venture that operates with the primary goal of addressing social or environmental issues while generating revenue through the sale of goods or services. Unlike traditional businesses, social enterprises prioritize their social or environmental mission over maximizing profits, although they still aim to be financially sustainable. The profits generated are often reinvested into the organization or used to further its social or environmental goals. In Palestine, a social enterprise can be registered as a for-profit company, not-for-profit company, charity, or co-op.
Why the BuildPalestine Fellowship? And why now?
Like so many around the world, we at BuildPalestine carry profound grief for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. This catastrophe opens our wounds and reminds us that true and lasting impact requires liberation.
Across Palestine, the combined weight of destruction, economic instability, and growing dependency on foreign aid has highlighted just how vulnerable our communities have become. Whether in Gaza, the West Bank, or the 1948 territories, Palestinians face conditions that threaten daily life as well as long-term opportunities and self-determination. These realities reinforce a truth we have long understood: meaningful, sustainable change must come from within.
Even in this time of profound grief, our purpose is clear. The BuildPalestine Fellowship supports early-stage social enterprises with a product, service, or prototype, helping them refine their business models, strengthen their teams, and expand their impact. Through this support, the fellowship helps transform ideas into actionable, community-driven solutions that contribute to a self-determined, thriving Palestine.
This six-month program utilizes a structured curriculum consisting of live workshops, one-on-one coaching, and a demo pitching day. We provide mentorship, resources, and access to a resourceful network to help entrepreneurs realize their visions.
Who’s Eligible to Apply?
This program is for ambitious leaders who are:
- Palestinians whose social enterprises are making an impact in historic Palestine (West Bank, Gaza, Jerusalem, and 48 lands).
- Have developed a working product/service or prototype that aims to solve a social or environmental challenge in Palestine (Registration is optional, and we welcome all registration statuses. However, the social enterprise must be established.)
- Committed to 4-12 hours/month for 6 months of dedicated focus to the program to grow their enterprises
- Preferably, the team should consist of at least three members
- Preferably, the lead team member is committed to the venture as a full-time role.
- Interested in developing and refining a business model for long-term sustainability
- Interested in joining and contributing to a community of like-minded Palestinian social entrepreneurs
Selection Criteria
Social Impact
Your solution has a positive, meaningful, and sustainable effect on the Palestinian community and particularly for those at a disadvantage, and contributes to solving a social or environmental issue
Social Innovation
Your approach should be more efficient and/or effective than the alternative available solutions, or should provide a new solution to a problem not yet addressed
Launched Solution
Your product should be launched with a track record, or you have a tested minimum viable product (MVP). Idea stage projects aren’t eligible for the fellowship
Team Capacity & Commitment
The founder/ team demonstrates the necessary skills, dedication, and capacity to grow the solution.
At least one team member must be actively committed to pushing the venture forward throughout the fellowship.
Fellowship Program Outline
Reasons to become a fellow:
Structured Learning & Tailored Support
The six-month program offers live sessions, workshops, and demo pitching, along with tailored coaching and resources to aid early-stage startups in building sustainable social enterprises.
Access to Network
BuildPalestine has curated a network of mentors, experts, and fellow entrepreneurs who offer valuable insights, collaboration opportunities, and potential partnerships.
Focus on Sustainability
We are committed to helping our Fellows test and refine a viable business model for their enterprises. We believe social good requires financial sustainability for long-term success and impact.
Continued Support
BuildPalestine’s support continues post-program with ongoing networking, upskilling opportunities, and access to funding via the BuildPalestine Fund and regional partners.
