Division of: Vibrant Motivation and Development Foundation | Section 8 Co.

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Ved Mandir Complex, Amphalla, Jammu 180005

LEAD Impact Fellowship

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs to co-create sustainable & impactful interventions across Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

LEAD Impact Fellowship

LEAD Impact Fellowship is a structured leadership development program where participants engage directly with real-world challenges and work towards creating tangible, on-ground impact. Anchored in the lived realities of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, it is designed as a rigorous, field-embedded journey that builds individuals capable of taking genuine ownership of complex, multi-stakeholder development challenges. The fellowship places participants within ongoing development initiatives, enabling them to work closely with communities, institutions, grassroots organisations, and policymakers, and translate intent into meaningful, sustained action.

Duration

60 Weeks (~14 months)

Eligibility

Under 29 years of age with at least a graduation degree
(Final-year UG/PG students are also welcome)

Honorarium & Allowances

Rs. 25,000 pm + HRA + Travel

Requirements

Applicants should show Interest in development, entrepreneurship, research, or public policy. With strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills. Willing to work in dynamic, field-based environments.

Timeline

- 1st May, 2026 - 10th June, 2026 - Mid June 2026 - 15th July, 2026 - 1st August, 2026

Why This Fellowship Matters?

Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are at a crucial stage of transformation-offering a unique opportunity to build sustainable systems from the ground up.

LEAD Impact Fellowship places you within real development initiatives, where you work alongside communities, institutions, and experts to create meaningful impact.

This is not just a learning experience-it's a chance to take ownership, build solutions, and contribute to the region's long-term growth.

Key Highlights
  1. Field-Based Learning Work directly on the ground with communities, institutions, and local stakeholders.
  2. Multi-Sector Exposure Gain hands-on experience across development, startups, research, and institutions.
  3. Network & Institutional Exposure Build connections across policymakers, experts, institutions, and the wider development ecosystem.
  4. Mentorship & Skill Building Learn from experienced professionals through continuous guidance and training.
  5. Leadership Pathways Build the skills and experience to grow into impactful roles and careers.
Selection Process
  1. Application Screening
    Submit your application and CV. Candidates are shortlisted based on motivation, alignment, and relevant experience.
  2. Online Interview
    Shortlisted applicants are evaluated on problem-solving ability, communication skills, and commitment to the development sector.
  3. In-Person Interaction
    Final candidates are invited for a detailed interaction, including discussions and case-based assessment.

Fellowship Work Domains

Livelihood Generation & Value Chain Development

Fellows will work on taking livelihood generation initiatives, focusing on:

  • Designing and piloting context-specific livelihood interventions across Ladakh and J&K.
  • Supporting creation cluster-based plantations models under LEAD's Project Vasundhara
  • Facilitate capacity-building sessions for producers and community groups
  • Support market linkages and buyer connections for local products
Entrepreneurship & Startup Ecosystem

Fellows will contribute to building a strong regional entrepreneurship ecosystem by:

  • Identifying and supporting aspiring entrepreneurs
  • Connecting startups with incubation, mentorship, and funding opportunities
  • Strengthening market linkages for local products and enterprises
  • Supporting branding, packaging, and cooperative ecosystem development
Research & Policy

Fellows will engage in evidence-based research and policy work, including:

  • Conducting field research, surveys, and development studies
  • Preparing policy briefs, reports, and documentation outputs
  • Supporting collaborations with academic and research institutions
  • Documenting cultural narratives, heritage, and local knowledge systems
NGO Capacity Building & Impact Initiatives

Fellows will work to strengthen social impact ecosystem by:

  • Mapping and engaging with NGOs and community organisations
  • Supporting proposal development and CSR linkages
  • Facilitating platforms such as Impact Conclave
  • Strengthening institutional capacity and collaboration ecosystems

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