Why We Partnered

The Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship marshals The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s 150-year tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation for deployment in developing countries. It was founded in 2007 on the belief that economic progress and good governance in developing countries emerge from entrepreneurship and innovations that empower ordinary citizens. The Center runs a fellowship for graduate students who will launch businesses in developing countries.

This program builds upon the Legatum Center’s reputation and experience in innovative entrepreneurship. It will strengthen its capacity to extend opportunities and participation for innovations in Sub-Saharan Africa by providing up to 200 fellowships to students from Africa and other developing regions. It will produce case studies about successful business models aimed at generating jobs, improving productivity, and stimulating business growth. The Center will also work with universities in other countries to host a global competition that recognizes innovations that generate employment and economic opportunities, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Anticipated Impact

• Provide fellowships to promising students from Africa and other developing regions.
• Support the creation of businesses led by fellows and alumni.
• Catalyze innovations that generate employment for youth and extend financial services.
• Build a knowledge base of business models that effectively meet needs of the poor.