5 Funding and Fellowship Opportunities You Can Still Apply to in 2026

Many miss out on opportunities simply because they don’t know where or how to look. 

Funding, mentorship, research support, founder networks and access to experts can make a huge difference when you’re building a company, researching a problem or trying to break into a new field. 

The good news is that several programmes are still accepting applications, including one offering a $250,000 first cheque, another with an $80,000 fellowship stipend, and a fully funded AI policy fellowship. 

To skip the long search, Techloy has compiled a list of funding, fellowship and founder-support programmes that are currently open for applications. 

8 Best Founder Opportunities to Apply for Now (YC & More)

These funding and mentorship programmes provide founders with the capital, guidance, networks, and exposure they need to build and grow their startups.

TechloyDavid Adubiina

/1. The Bridge W27 Residency

Founders at the very beginning of building something ambitious can apply for The Bridge W27, an eight-week residency in San Francisco run by Entrepreneurs First. 

The programme brings 50 founders together in one house while they build their companies from scratch. Selected founders receive a $250,000 first cheque, while visa support, flights, housing and food are covered. 

The residency starts in February 2027 and is designed for founders looking to build and connect with other ambitious entrepreneurs and investors. 

• Programme: 8-week San Francisco founder residency with $250,000 in initial funding. 
• Deadline: September 28, 2026.