How can emerging leaders in China amplify their impact on climate issues and sustainable development at a greater scale?
The Richard Rockefeller Fellowship will empower social entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders from China dedicated to promoting sustainable development and addressing climate issues.
This transformative program bridges academic thinking with practical action to help fellows scale impactful initiatives and create lasting positive change. The fellowship will send up to eight fellows on a five-week, all-expenses-paid (stipend, travel, and lodging included) trip to the United States. These exceptional social impact leaders will receive resources and support to help them create and scale up the type of impactful initiatives that can lead to lasting change.
Benefits
- Immersive Learning: This robust program blends Columbia University's academic resources with practical experience at leading U.S. philanthropic organizations.
- Expert Mentorship: Personalized guidance from experienced professionals throughout the program will help fellows navigate the complexities of the philanthropic and nongovernmental landscapes.
- Expanded Networks: Fellows can build long-term connections with influential U.S. and Chinese professionals, fostering a powerful support system for their work in China.
- Action-Oriented Learning: The program concludes with a comprehensive action plan that fellows will present to key stakeholders in China, showcasing their new skills and securing support for future initiatives.
Eligibility
Applicants must be:
- Mid-career professionals with Chinese citizenship, including those from Hong Kong and Macau
- Hold a bachelor's degree or above
- Available for the program from July to November 2025, including a five-week stay in the U.S. during September/October 2025
- Proficient in English, as demonstrated through one of the following means:
- Holding an undergraduate or graduate degree from a country where English is an official language.
- Providing scores from recognized English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, DET).
- Demonstrating proficiency through alternative means, such as using English as the primary language in work or study.
Important Upcoming Dates
- Applications open until May 26 at 11:59 p.m. Beijing Time
- Fellows announced in early July; program begins in late July/early August
- U.S. trip from September 21 to October 24
- Program ends the week of November 17 in Beijing
Contact Us
If you have questions regarding the Richard Rockefeller Fellowship or would like to reach out for a potential collaboration, please contact:
Columbia Global Center Beijing
[email protected]
WeChat Assistant:
Fellowship History
The Richard Rockefeller Fellowship was established in 2016 as a tribute to Dr. Richard Rockefeller, who was profoundly inspired by the growth of Chinese philanthropy and the relationships he formed with philanthropic families in China. Before his tragic death in 2014, he became a passionate advocate for strategic philanthropy as a means to strengthen U.S.-China partnership and address global challenges.
The Fellowship was originally created by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund with major contributions from the Lao Niu Brother & Sister Foundation as well as members of the Rockefeller family.