Applications are now open for social entrepreneurs to join the fourth edition of the Tabadol fellowship program, an 8-month collaborative journey designed to pair innovative founders with civil society organizations (CSOs) to solve pressing local challenges. The program is a partnership between makesense MENA and The Asfari Foundation.
Fellowship Overview
Tabadol offers a unique fellowship model that stands apart from traditional accelerators. The program will select 15 social entrepreneurs and match them with 15 CSOs in Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, or Iraq. Over eight months, each pair will work together to co-design and implement an innovative solution that addresses a specific community need while also enhancing the long-term sustainability and impact of the partner CSO.
Key Benefits
Selected social entrepreneurs will receive comprehensive support to develop their projects and skills. Key benefits include:
- Monthly Stipend: A grant of up to $500 per month for the 8-month duration of the fellowship.
- Impactful Collaboration: A unique opportunity to work directly with a Civil Society Organization to co-create and launch a real-world social impact solution.
- Tailored Support: Dedicated one-on-one coaching, mentorship, and hands-on support from the experienced makesense MENA team.
- Capacity Building: Access to a series of workshops and expert-led training sessions to build and refine entrepreneurial skills.
- Community and Network: The chance to become part of a vibrant regional network of social entrepreneurs, mentors, and civil society leaders.
Eligibility
The call for applications is open to social entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a national of or currently residing in Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, or Iraq.
- Aged between 22 and 35 years old.
- Have a minimum of 2 years of professional experience.
- Able to commit 2.5 days per week (20 hours) to the program for the full 8-month duration.
- Have an existing idea or an early-stage social enterprise project ready for development.
- Must be fluent in Arabic (English is a plus).
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and supported by informational resources:
- Submit Your Application: Interested entrepreneurs must apply through the official Airtable form.
- Deadline: The final day to submit applications is September 30, 2025.
- Learn More: Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document.
- Attend an Info Session: Join one of the two online info sessions to ask questions directly:
- Info Session #1: Friday, September 12, 2025.
- Info Session #2: Thursday, September 25, 2025.
About the Organizers
- makesense MENA: An international organization that designs and runs programs to support social entrepreneurs, citizens, and organizations in building more inclusive and sustainable societies.
- The Asfari Foundation: A British grant-making charity that invests in and supports the creation of a more open, resilient, and just civil society in the Levant and the UK.
