Common Questions
No. The Stoyanova Fellowship is strictly for undergraduate students enrolled in a Canadian university. We believe undergraduates are at a unique inflection point where financial freedom can radically alter their trajectory.
No. The purpose of the grant is to buy back your time. Employment violates the terms of the fellowship agreement, with the exception of academic research assistantships (max 10 hrs/week).
Yes, or a Permanent Resident.
While we do not have a hard cutoff, successful applicants typically demonstrate exceptional academic rigor. However, we value high agency and service track record over pure grades.
Service is defined broadly as uncompensated work for the public good. This could be leading a non-profit, significant volunteering, or building open-source tools. It does not include student government or club social roles.
The Foundation is a private trust endowed by a group of Canadian technology entrepreneurs who wish to remain anonymous. We do not accept public donations, ensuring we remain beholden only to our mission.
We trust our Fellows. The $50,000 grant is deposited in monthly installments. There are no receipts to submit, no budget approvals, and no restrictions on spending. You use it to live, so you can focus on your work.
Fellows gain lifetime access to the private network of Stoyanova Scholars and the Founders. This network facilitates introductions, mentorship, and capital for future ventures.
Every August, the incoming Fellow joins past alumni and the Founders for a 5-day summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. It is an intense period of mentorship, goal-setting, and debate. It is not a vacation.