BuildPalestine has announced the launch of the “Root” (Juzoour) Program, the core track of the 2026 BuildPalestine Fellowship. This six-month initiative is dedicated to supporting Palestinian social enterprises that have existing products or services and are looking to refine their business models and scale their social or environmental impact.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Entrepreneurship Fellowship Program
- For: Palestinian Social Enterprises (West Bank, Gaza, Jerusalem, and ’48 territories)
- Key Benefits: 1-on-1 Coaching, Expert Mentorship, Business Model Refinement
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Location: Palestine
Fellowship Overview
The Root Program (Juzoour) is designed for social enterprises that have moved beyond the idea stage and are already operating with a tangible product or service. The program aims to empower changemakers to build financial sustainability while prioritizing their social mission. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes live workshops, individual coaching sessions, and a final Demo Day, fellows will receive the guidance and resources needed to transform their initiatives into sustainable, scalable organizations.
Key Benefits
Selected fellows will embark on a transformative journey that includes:
- Specialized Support: Tailored business development plans to ensure growth.
- Expert Mentorship: Access to a wide network of experts and mentors in relevant fields.
- Sustainability Focus: Guidance on implementing business models that balance financial revenue with social impact.
- Continuous Support: Ongoing engagement from BuildPalestine even after the program concludes for fellows who continue to drive impact.
- Networking: Connection to a community of like-minded Palestinian social entrepreneurs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2026 fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Location: Must be a Palestinian-led project creating impact within historic Palestine (West Bank, Gaza, Jerusalem, and ’48 territories).
- Stage: Must have an existing product, service, or tested MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Projects in the idea phase are not eligible.
- Impact: The project must solve a clear social or environmental challenge.
- Commitment: Willingness to dedicate 4–12 hours per month for six months.
- Team: Preference is given to teams of three or more members, with at least one member committed full-time to the initiative.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on the following pillars:
- Team Capacity: The founder/team must possess the skills and commitment required to develop the project.
- Proven Solution: The solution must be active and tested (not theoretical).
- Innovation: The project should offer a new or more effective approach to solving a problem.
- Impact: The solution must deliver tangible, sustainable positive change for the community.
How to Apply
Applications for the Root Program are now open. Social entrepreneurs who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply before the deadline to join this network of changemakers.
About BuildPalestine
BuildPalestine is a community of supporters connecting with trusted projects in Palestine. They exist to empower social entrepreneurs and community organizations to solve local challenges through innovation, providing the resources and networks necessary to reclaim funding and build a self-sufficient Palestinian economy.
Learn More: BuildPalestine Official Website
