About the opportunity
The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program brings approximately 250 young entrepreneurs aged 25 to 35 from Latin America and the Caribbean to the United States. The program combines virtual upskilling modules developed with Arizona State University, live virtual events, and a four-week professional placement at a U.S. business across 18 cities. Participants also join an arrival orientation in Houston and a closing forum in Washington, D.C. The fellowship aims to build leadership skills, increase trade, encourage job creation, and foster lasting networks across the Western Hemisphere.
Funding and benefits
- J-1 visa support for the participant
- Round-trip travel from the participant's home city to the United States and required domestic U.S. travel
- Market-oriented commercial execution and entrepreneurial leadership coursework and mentoring
- U.S. arrival orientation in Houston, Texas, and closing forum in Washington, D.C.
- Four-week professional placement with a U.S. business host
- Limited accident and sickness benefit plan
- Housing and meal stipend during the program
Who can apply?
- Must be between 25 and 35 years of age by January 1, 2027
- Must be a current resident and citizen of one of the eligible participating countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, or the Kingdom of the Netherlands Antilles (with Dutch citizenship for Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten)
- Must be eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa
- Must have a demonstrated track record of successfully growing a for-profit business or venture for at least two years
- Must not be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Must not be a U.S. government employee or related to a U.S. government employee
- Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English at a professional level
Required documents
- Completed online application form including short essay responses
- Educational and professional history details
- Entrepreneurial profile information
When to apply
- Application deadline is November 8, 2026, at 11:59 pm EST
How to apply
- Complete the online application consisting of 8 parts through the official portal
- Submit all responses in English before the deadline
- Participate in a semifinalist interview scheduled with the local U.S. Embassy in late 2026 or early 2027
Additional information
- The program follows an unaccompanied travel model; family members, guests, or coworkers may not join participants during the U.S. component.
- Participants implement a Commercial and Business Leadership Action Plan upon returning to their home countries and gain access to alumni grants and networks.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Emerging entrepreneurs and founders running a for-profit business for at least two years who want to scale their operations.
- Leaders looking to build cross-border commercial partnerships and professional networks within the United States.
- Applicants seeking a fully structured blend of virtual training and a hands-on four-week professional placement in the U.S.
What should you think carefully about?
- The fellowship requires a significant time commitment for hybrid coursework and a four-week intensive in-person stay in the U.S.
- Travel is strictly unaccompanied, meaning family members or colleagues cannot accompany participants.
- Professional proficiency in English is mandatory for both the application essays and the U.S. Embassy interview.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program fits entrepreneurs aiming to gain international market exposure, accelerate business growth, and connect with a robust network of regional leaders and U.S. mentors. It acts as a powerful catalyst for leaders seeking structured professional mobility and post-fellowship alumni collaboration opportunities.
Our take
Early-career entrepreneurs from eligible Latin American and Caribbean nations who meet the age and business-traction criteria should strongly consider applying. Those unable to commit to the intensive hybrid schedule or unaccompanied travel rules will find it less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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