Selection Criteria

Each year, IWF selects up to 50 leaders from a wide range of regions, cultures, backgrounds, and professions. In this competitive process, IWF seeks candidates with the following characteristics:

Achievement

• Track records of significant direct accomplishments within their organizations
• Positions of substantial professional responsibility, scope, and decision-making authority
• Expanding influence in their companies, fields, or industries

Recognition

• Recognition within their organizations as valued leaders, as evidenced by awards, promotions, and inclusion in corporate succession plans
• External recognition of achievements by industry, community, or other relevant organizations

Leadership

• Exemplary integrity, strength of character, and interpersonal skills
• Records of bringing about positive change and taking action for women in their organizations or communities
• Ambition and ability to lead at the highest professional levels and to support colleagues’ growth and advancement

Commitment

• Capacity to both contribute to and gain from the Leadership Fellows Program
• Willingness to share knowledge and lessons from the program through completion of a Legacy Project during the fellowship
• Ability to participate fully in all program activities, including four in-person training sessions and approximately 50 hours of independent work with an IWF mentor, on a Legacy Project, preparing for in-person sessions, and participating in virtual meetings

While designed for women leaders, the Program is open to all who fulfill the admissions criteria. 

Application Deadline

2026-2027 Leadership Fellows Program applications are due May 15, 2026.

For More Information

Download the program brochure here or go to IWF's website.