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Launched in 2022, the Tabadol Fellowship is a prestigious initiative funded by the Asfari Foundation and implemented by makesense, designed to foster innovation and collaboration among Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Syria. The program aims to strengthen CSOs by connecting them with social entrepreneurs to co-create sustainable solutions, share knowledge, and enhance organizational impact.
What the Fellowship Offers
Financial Support
- A monthly stipend of up to $500 USD for the full 8-month program.
- Completely free participation – no fees or costs involved.
Professional Development
- One-on-one coaching sessions with makesense experts to guide project implementation.
- Training in project management, innovation integration, and sustainability planning.
- Support for developing personal ventures and entrepreneurial initiatives.
- Continuous mentorship throughout the fellowship.
Networking and Community
- Interactive meet-ups with fellow participants to foster collaboration.
- Access to Multaqa events, featuring expert talks and roundtable discussions.
- Opportunities to build lasting connections with professionals and organizations in the region.
Practical Experience
- Hands-on involvement in projects hosted by partner CSOs.
- Developing and executing sustainability-focused initiatives.
- Applying innovative solutions to established organizational challenges.
- Fully online participation – no travel required.
Eligibility Requirements
Who Can Apply:
- Nationality: Lebanese, Palestinian, Jordanian, or Syrian.
- Project Experience: Must have led a social impact project in areas such as active citizenship, education, entrepreneurship, gender equality, good governance, independent media, or technology & innovation.
- Project Development: Experience running a project for over one year, including testing and user feedback.
- Availability: Can dedicate 2-3 days per week to the fellowship.
- Mindset: Open to collaboration and committed to developing sustainability projects with CSOs.
Who Cannot Apply:
- Past Tabadol participants.
- Individuals unable to meet time commitments.
- Applicants seeking purely academic opportunities.
Selection Process
- Application Period: Open until September 30, 2025.
- Pre-selection: Up to 30 social entrepreneurs will be shortlisted.
- Expression of Interest: Pre-selected candidates choose preferred CSOs.
- Matchmaking: Facilitated meetings between entrepreneurs and CSOs.
- Project Co-creation: Collaborative proposals developed by matched pairs.
- Final Interviews: Selection based on project impact, innovation, and collaboration potential.
Outcome: Up to 15 social entrepreneurs will be selected to join the fellowship.
Program Commitments
Participants are expected to:
- Actively engage in all fellowship activities.
- Support host CSOs in implementing sustainability projects.
- Attend coaching sessions, submit monthly progress reports, and participate in community events.
- Submit a “Partner Experience Video” reflecting on the fellowship.
The program is flexible: prior connections with organizations are welcomed, legal registration of projects is not required, and no specific technical skills are necessary.
Why Join Tabadol?
Impactful Experience: Work directly with established CSOs to create meaningful community change while bridging entrepreneurial ideas with grassroots work.
Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience in project management, sustainability, and innovation, while receiving guidance from experienced mentors.
Regional Network: Connect with social entrepreneurs and CSOs across Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Syria, gaining access to expert knowledge and lasting professional relationships.
Financial Support: Receive a monthly stipend and support for project development while participating in a fully funded program.
Since its launch, Tabadol has built a model of mutual benefit where social entrepreneurs gain practical experience, and CSOs receive innovative strategies for long-term sustainability.
For more information, visit the Tabadol Fellowship website or contact tabadol@makesense.org.
Program Partners:
- Funded by: Asfari Foundation
- Implemented by: makesense