The fellowship is designed for early to mid-career professionals who are interested in international development, global cooperation, or social impact work. Applicants should be based in the Minnesota Twin-Cities Metro area and eager to grow as leaders while contributing to community impact.

No. While many fellows have some professional or academic background in global development, nonprofit work, or related fields, the program welcomes individuals from diverse career paths who are committed to leadership growth and global engagement.

Fellows can expect to dedicate about 4-7 hours per month. This includes monthly workshops, mentorship sessions, community project work, and networking opportunities.

The program uses an in-person model. Workshops will be in person (in the Twin Cities). Fellows will be notified of the location in advance and can look at the schedule in the fellows website page for dates.

Two fellows are paired with a mentorship group that includes two experienced professional mentors who provide “big challenge” coaching, career guidance, and support. The group of four participate in a mentorship group for shared learning and encouragement.

The project is an opportunity for fellows to apply their skills to a real-world initiative that supports equity, collaboration, addresses a current issue, and impact within the MINN network or a partner organization.

The fellowship is designed to be accessible so there is no cost to join. However, fellows are expected to cover their own transportation costs.

The program typically selects a cohort (around 8–10 fellows) to ensure a strong, connected community and personalized mentorship experience.

Fellows graduate with strengthened leadership skills, expanded professional networks, hands-on project experience, and a deeper connection to both local and global communities.