The 2027 Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program supports women entrepreneurs in the United States who are building and growing revenue-generating businesses. Organized by the Tory Burch Foundation, the fellowship provides access to experienced business advisors, professional coaching, educational resources, networking opportunities, and a community of fellow founders. The program welcomes businesses across all industries and focuses on helping women entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, expand their networks, and pursue sustainable growth.
Application Window
- Applications Open: 22 September 2026
- Application Deadline: 18 November 2026, 05:59 GMT+1 (17 November 2026, 11:59 PM EST)
- Application Fee: Free
- Application Method: Online only
Applications must be complete and submitted before the deadline. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Applicant Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Identify as women entrepreneurs.
- Be at least 21 years old by 17 November 2026.
- Be proficient in English.
- Be legal residents of the United States, including eligible U.S. territories.
- Own the largest or equally largest individual ownership stake in a qualifying business.
- Play a significant role in the business's day-to-day management.
Business Eligibility
Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Be for-profit enterprises operating in any industry.
- Be at least 51% owned and controlled by women.
- Generate a minimum of US$75,000 in annual revenue, with no maximum revenue limit.
- Be legally formed under U.S. law and operate within the United States.
- Be operational and in an early-growth stage.
Exclusions and Restrictions
The following businesses and applicants are not eligible:
- Idea-stage ventures that have not begun operating.
- Non-profit organizations.
- Subsidiary businesses.
- Employees of the Tory Burch Foundation, Tory Burch LLC, specified affiliates or vendors, and their immediate family or household members.
Only one application per person and business is permitted.
Fellowship Benefits
The Tory Burch Foundation expects to select approximately 160 Fellows, who will gain access to:
- Professional business coaching and expert advisory sessions.
- Workshops, webinars, and educational resources.
- Networking with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.
- A private digital community for peer learning and collaboration.
- Business development and commercialization support tailored to growth needs.
- A US$2,000 education grant.
- Additional financial support and access-to-capital opportunities.
- Founder well-being resources and selected in-person entrepreneurship activities.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications through the official online application system during the designated application period.
The process includes:
- Completing the required personal and business information.
- Providing personal and company statements.
- Submitting supporting photographs and a video introduction, as applicable.
- Ensuring that the video does not exceed two minutes.
- Confirming acceptance of the program's terms and conditions.
- Submitting one complete application before the deadline.
A formal business plan is not mandatory, although applicants may provide one to offer additional insight into their businesses.
Review and Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on several factors, including:
- Personal and Company Statements: Clarity, substance, and quality of the applicant's responses.
- Video Introduction: Presentation of the founder, business, and entrepreneurial vision.
- Social Responsibility: Commitment to creating positive and lasting impact.
- Business Differentiation: Unique characteristics and competitive advantages.
- Problem-Solving and Impact: The significance of the problem addressed and the business's contribution to solving it.
- Entrepreneurial Journey: The founder's motivation, achievements, and challenges overcome.
- Growth Potential: Opportunities for business development, expansion, and long-term sustainability.
The selection committee may also consider diversity across industries, geographic locations, and stages of business growth.
Selection Timeline
- 22 September 2026: Applications open.
- 17 November 2026: Applications close.
- Winter 2026–2027: Application review period.
- Around April 2027: Selected applicants may be contacted according to the official terms and conditions.
- May 2027: Fellows selection, as indicated on the program's published timeline.
Selected Fellows may be required to complete additional eligibility verification and sign participation agreements.
The 2027 Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program offers eligible women business owners an opportunity to access professional guidance, entrepreneurial education, financial resources, and a supportive business network. The fellowship is intended for established, revenue-generating enterprises seeking further growth rather than businesses at the idea stage. Interested applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements, prepare the necessary application materials, and submit their applications before the stated deadline. Applicants should also consult the official program rules for any updates or clarification regarding the selection and notification timeline.