BwB Fellows Programme

Empowering Financial Professionals to Lead Sustainable Transformation 

The BwB Fellows Programme offers an exceptional opportunity for experienced financial professionals to contribute to innovative, high-impact projects, receive mentorship from respected industry leaders, and join a driven global community that is dedicated to advancing environmental and social good.

Programme Aim

This exclusive two-year programme is designed to nurture future leaders in sustainable finance by empowering them to employ their existing skills in new ways and gain new knowledge and experience through strategic-level engagement with BwB’s innovative initiatives. The programme’s focus is on strategic input, high-level advisory work, and thought leadership, rather than operational execution. 

What to Expect from the BwB Fellows Programme  

• Meaningful Engagement with Sustainability Projects: Fellows contribute up to 10 hours per month to support transformative projects that employ innovative strategies, instruments, and structures to mobilise capital for social and environmental impact across a diverse range of sectors and geographies. Projects may involve:

  • Structuring innovative financial mechanisms for climate resilience and biodiversity.
  • Developing investment frameworks for nature-based solutions and sustainable infrastructure.
  • Collaborating with public and private stakeholders on blended finance initiatives.
  • Supporting public finance strategies to unlock capital for underserved communities.
  • Engaging in development finance projects mobilising resources across emerging markets.

• Mutual Mentorship and Knowledge Exchange: Fellows will receive direct mentorship from BwB’s leadership, senior ambassadors, and members of the Global Expert Group, who are recognised experts in finance, policy, and sustainability. At the same time, Fellows will be asked to provide mentorship to BwB analytical team members, drawing on their practical, market-driven experience to share expertise in areas such as: capital markets and financial structuring; sovereign and sub-sovereign debt; blended finance and impact investing; asset and risk management; and development finance institution project development and execution.

• Access to Exclusive Networking Opportunities and Events: Fellows will have opportunities to interact with members of BwB’s Global Expert Group through events such as small group sessions and roundtable discussions. Fellows will also be invited to BwB’s annual retreat – an immersive gathering designed to foster collaboration, develop new ideas, celebrate progress, and exchange experiences and insights.

• Lifelong Membership in BwB Alumni Group: Upon completing the two-year programme, Fellows transition into the BwB Alumni Group, enabling them to maintain valuable connections and draw on the collective expertise of individuals at the forefront of sustainable finance. 

Eligibility

• Applicants must: 
  • Be currently working in investment banking (sell-side), asset management (buy-side), public finance, or a development finance institution. 
  • Have a minimum of eight years of relevant experience. 
  • Have a demonstrable passion for sustainability and financial innovation and a strong rationale for becoming a BwB Fellow.  
• Time commitment: Up to 10 hours per month over the two-year programme, with flexibility to accommodate full-time employment. 
• Compliance requirements: Formally commit to upholding BwB’s compliance standards, including adherence to NDAs, conflict of interest policies, and fit and proper requirements. 
• Employer engagement: Fellows are encouraged to discuss participation with their employers to ensure alignment with internal policies. 
• Financial contribution: A one-time fee of £10,000 (or equivalent in USD/EUR) is required upon acceptance to the programme. 

Accessibility and Scholarship Options 

At BwB, we believe that sustainable finance should be driven by a diverse and inclusive network of professionals. To ensure accessibility for individuals who may not be in a position to meet the financial commitment, a limited number of scholarship and fee-adjusted places are available. Candidates are encouraged to apply for assistance if they:

• Can demonstrate exceptional potential to contribute to driving sustainable finance. 
• Have a compelling rationale for participating but face financial constraints. 

Candidates should indicate their interest in a scholarship or fee adjustment during the application process by providing a brief statement outlining their situation. Scholarships will be awarded based on merit, potential impact, and commitment to BwB’s mission.

Participation Scope

As established above, the programme’s focus is on strategic input, high-level advisory work, and thought leadership, rather than operational execution. Fellows will provide insights and contribute to shaping BwB’s initiatives to help deliver high-impact outcomes, maintaining a hands-off position as regards direct implementation of project work.

Applications, Selection, and Intake

 The BwB Fellows Programme is an unparallelled opportunity for driven individuals to help shape the future of sustainable finance and make a meaningful contribution to positive change.  

 Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with Fellows joining in spring and autumn each year. The programme is highly selective, offering limited placements annually to ensure Fellows enjoy meaningful, individualised experiences. 

 Eligible individuals who wish to be considered for this unique programme should submit the following information to begin the candidate review process:

• A detailed statement of interest outlining their passion for sustainability. 
• A record of relevant experience and achievements. 

Bankers without Boundaries (BwB), an innovator in global finance, is an investment banking, asset management and advisory firm focused on delivering value to our clients that benefit the environment and society. Founded in 2013, BwB is powered by former investment bankers and is a not for profit, with operations in Ireland, the United Kingdom & Singapore. BwB serves the financial needs of governments, institutional clients, corporates, high net worth individuals, cities, and foundations worldwide in meeting the most pressing social and environmental challenges.

Originally posted on Himalayas