ThinkImpact is an international non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that catalyzes social businesses in Kenya and South Africa. Founded in 2003, ThinkImpact has grown to become a leading player in the social enterprise sector. We provide young social entrepreneurs the most effective vehicle to build high-impact social businesses that empower community members in rural Africa.

ThinkImpact connects American college students and young adults with developing countries to alleviate poverty through leadership and entrepreneurship.

Each summer, ThinkImpact hosts the Innovation Institute Scholars Program, a ten-week immersion experience in rural South Africa and Kenya. Prior to leaving for Africa, selected applicants convene in Washington, D.C. for a pre-departure training workshop. Once in country, scholars engage a comprehensive curriculum that includes language classes, a home stay, and excursions.

Only the best Innovation Institute Scholars will become fellows. They must submit a detailed business plan to ThinkImpact after returning from the Scholars Program, and fellows are selected based on the recommendations of their advisors from the summer, the merits of their business plan, and the quality of their interview. Selection is competitive.

Application Requirements: 
  • General applicants should apply by Feb. 1 to be eligible for a full scholarship.
  • Student must have been enrolled at an accredited American College/University within the past 2 years.
  • Student must be a current undergraduate junior or older.
  • Student must have a U.S. passport or student visa.

ThinkImpact is looking for the next generation of American social entrepreneurs: people who are passionate, ambitious, adventurous and committed to our philosophy of social business development for the purpose of poverty alleviation.

Benefits: 

Nine months of comprehensive training and guidance, comprising:

  • Mentoring from entrepreneurs and executives
  • Access to $20,000 in pro-bono services, such as legal counsel, accounting, design, website, grant-writing mentorship etc.
  • Three weekend-long training sessions on developing a business plan, pursuing investors, networking, leveraging social media, measuring SROI
  • A national network of social entrepreneurs

Financial support:

  • International travel to return to host community
  • Monthly living stipend
  • International travel medical insurance

On-the-ground support:

  • Full-time country director to support navigating local markets
  • Local office with full access to computers, internet, supplies