Kauffman Fellows Program
Transformational education and networking for venture capitalists.
Overview
The Kauffman Fellows Program is the largest and most established venture capital fellowship in the world, serving as a two-year transformational education, networking, and leadership development program for venture capitalists and capital formation professionals. Founded in 2000 and spun out from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the program represents the gold standard in VC professional development globally. The program includes in-person modules, global treks, monthly peer forums, and ongoing mentorship, creating a diverse cohort of investment professionals.
Investment focus
The Kauffman Fellows Program aims to develop the next generation of venture capital leaders by providing a comprehensive educational experience that emphasizes personal development, investment strategy, and operational rigor. It addresses the need for skilled professionals in capital formation and fosters a strong network of influential venture capitalists globally.
Program details
Designed for Investors, Limited Partners, General Partners, Fund Managers, Corporate Innovators, Operators. The program is hybrid. Participation is generally part time.
Who it is for
The program intentionally recruits diverse investor profiles including venture capital partners, private equity investors, family office leaders, accelerator fund managers, corporate venture capital professionals, angel network operators, and sovereign wealth fund representatives. Designed for senior leaders in capital formation with typically 5+ years of investment experience.
Check if you are eligible
Check your eligibility for Kauffman Fellows ProgramAdmissions and application
The program has a highly selective admission process emphasizing not just investment track record but also leadership potential and commitment to peer learning. Candidates are typically senior leaders in capital formation with 5+ years of investment experience.
Benefits
Kauffman Fellows report significant professional development including enhanced investment decision-making capabilities, expanded professional networks and deal flow, clarity on investment thesis and strategy, peer support and ongoing mentorship relationships, and access to global venture ecosystem insights.
Timeline
The program lasts for two years (24 months) and includes five in-person modules, a global summit, regional treks, and monthly forums.
How to go about it
- Read what it asks for
Who can apply, how people get in and whether it is open right now.
- Have something to show
Programs pick people whose work they can already point to. Put yours where it can be found.
- Apply the way the program asks
The program has not published how to apply. Terms and dates change. Check the official page before you act.
What it pays
The program requires a tuition fee of $80,000, covering all modules, summits, mentorship, and materials, but does not provide financial compensation.
Questions about this program
How do I join the Kauffman Fellows Program?
The program has not published how to apply. Terms and dates change. Check the official page before you act.
Is the fellowship paid?
The program states pay to participate. Get the amount, who qualifies, when it pays and any carry conditions in writing before you join.
What is the format and time commitment?
The program is hybrid. Participation is generally part time.
About Kauffman Fellows
Kauffman Fellows
Nonprofit Ecosystem Builder
Developing future venture capitalists through education and networking.
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From public sources
What the sources say about Kauffman Fellows Program
The application page presents a typical class composition table as selection expectations, not an exhaustive eligibility rule.
Source: Apply to Become a FellowThe program deliberately includes investors outside traditional VC, including PE, family offices, sovereign wealth, corporate venture, and angels.
Source: Kauffman Fellows Program OverviewThe operator estimates the application takes about one hour and permits saving progress.
Source: Apply to Become a FellowStrong applicants are invited to two virtual interviews with Fellows.
Source: Apply to Become a FellowThe operator requires attendance at the listed events for graduation.
Source: Apply to Become a FellowThe operator expects approximately 30-40 days devoted to the Fellowship over two years.
Source: Apply to Become a Fellow
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