Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Program (US)

The Mandela Washington Fellowship’s 2027 Reciprocal Exchange Component is now open for applications. This initiative, offered by the U.S. Department of State and administered by IREX, provides U.S. professionals the opportunity to collaborate with Fellowship alumni in Sub-Saharan Africa through funded projects. Applications close on 11 November 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: U.S. Department of State, administered by IREX

- Funding Type: Grant for in-person and hybrid projects

- Funding Amount: Up to $6,000 per U.S. participant for in-person projects; up to $3,000 per hybrid project

- Eligible Applicants: U.S. professionals and Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni

- Eligible Locations: Sub-Saharan African countries

- Application Deadline: 11 November 2026, 11:59 pm EST

- Project Duration: Up to four weeks, within the period of 15 March to 30 July 2027

About the Opportunity

The Reciprocal Exchange Component aims to strengthen partnerships developed through the Mandela Washington Fellowship by enabling U.S. professionals to execute collaborative projects with Fellowship alumni. These projects should create mutual benefits for both U.S. participants and African communities, enhancing professional networks and expanding opportunities. Funding and Benefits

- In-Person Projects: Grants of up to $6,000 per participant, supporting travel and project costs.

- Hybrid Projects: Grants of up to $3,000 per project, supporting virtual collaboration.

- Additional Support: Visa services covered through an IREX-preferred vendor, except for travel to Nigeria.

Who Is Eligible?

Participants

- Must be U.S. citizens residing in the United States. - Cannot be employees or immediate family of U.S. Government employees. - Must have established or strengthened partnerships through the Mandela Washington Fellowship. - Limited to one award per calendar year and up to two in-person projects total.

Collaborators:

- Must be Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni in good standing. - Cannot be U.S. Government employees or immediate family members. - Must reside in the project country during implementation. - Limited to one award per calendar year and must not have been the primary collaborator in more than two projects. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas Projects must focus on one or more of the following areas: Projects must not include direct clinical patient contact or travel to Level 4 Travel Advisory locations. Why This Opportunity Matters This program provides a platform for U.S. professionals and African leaders to collaborate on impactful projects that benefit both regions, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and professional growth. How to Apply

- Complete the Application Form: Ensure all sections are filled with detailed and accurate information.

- Develop a Work Plan and Budget: Collaborate with partners to submit a detailed work plan and budget using the templates provided.

- Submit by Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm EST on 11 November 2026.

- Follow Up: Await notification of award in February 2027.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes - Work closely with your collaborator to ensure all application materials are complete and accurate. - Avoid using generic AI tools for responses; ensure content is reflective of personal experiences and plans. - Be clear and concise in essay responses and project plans. Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for the Reciprocal Exchange? U.S. professionals and Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni who meet the eligibility criteria can apply. What is the maximum funding available? Up to $6,000 per participant for in-person projects and up to $3,000 for hybrid projects. What are the project requirements? Projects must address specified priority areas and meet the criteria outlined by IREX. Can previous participants apply again? Yes, but within the limitations of one award per calendar year and no more than two in-person projects total. When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 11: 59 pm EST on 11 November 2026.

Next Steps Interested applicants should review the official guidelines and complete the application process as outlined. Ensure all submissions are thorough and submitted by the deadline to be considered for this valuable exchange opportunity.