Applications are open for the BKR VC Fellowship Program 2026-2027 (Catalyst / 5th Cohort) - a free 9-month venture capital learning experience from BKR Capital for Black professionals in Canada who want to become the next generation of investors, founders, and ecosystem stakeholders.
The programme combines a weekly virtual curriculum with a VC apprenticeship phase, deal simulation, industry workshops, and in-person events across Canadian investment hubs. Applications close 12 September 2026.
This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on the official BKR Capital announcement. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - BKR VC Fellowship Program 2026-2027
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | BKR Venture Capital Fellowship (Catalyst) - 2026-2027 cohort |
| Organiser | BKR Capital (Toronto, Canada) |
| Focus | Venture capital education for Black professionals |
| Duration | 9 months |
| Format | Primarily virtual classes + in-person industry events |
| Cost | Free - full attendance required to remain in the programme |
| Eligibility geography | Canada only (for now) |
| Experience | Typically 3 - 5 years of work experience |
| Deadline | 12 September 2026 |
| Official page | bkrcapital.ca/vc-fellowship |
| Apply | Official Monday.com application form |
Why the BKR VC Fellowship Exists
BKR Capital designed the fellowship to develop new venture capital leaders from the Black community. The organisers see this as a sustainable path to increase capital flowing toward talented founders from diverse backgrounds - by building a strong network of capable Black professionals across industries who can drive change in the VC landscape.
Programme Structure - Two Phases
Phase One - Foundations
A tailored weekly curriculum covering foundational venture capital concepts, including:
- The innovation ecosystem
- VC models and firm structure
- Startup investing strategies
- Evaluation frameworks
- Mechanics of a venture deal
Phase Two - VC Apprenticeship
An immersive apprenticeship that helps fellows integrate learning through:
- Expert-led talks
- Facilitated group discussions
- A robust deal-simulation process
- Practical projects and case studies
What Fellows Can Expect
- Small, intimate cohort
- Bi-weekly sessions and office hours
- Virtual classes of about 45 - 90 minutes (often Mondays and Thursdays after work)
- Pitch calls and dynamic industry workshops
- In-person industry events in hubs such as Toronto and Montreal
- Investment process simulation
- A social contract - each fellow designs and executes a give-back project within the VC ecosystem context
Who Should Apply
Strong candidates typically:
- Are Black professionals based in Canada
- Have about 3 - 5 years of work experience
- Show strong interest and commitment to venture capital
- Come from any industry - BKR welcomes diverse professional backgrounds
- Can commit to attending all required sessions over nine months
If you are not selected, BKR encourages re-applying in future cohorts.
How to Apply
- Read the full programme overview on BKR VC Fellowship.
- Confirm you meet Canada-based eligibility and experience expectations.
- Prepare a clear statement of interest in venture capital and your professional background.
- Submit the official application form before 12 September 2026.
- If accepted, plan for weekly virtual sessions plus occasional in-person industry events.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | August - September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 12 September 2026 |
| Programme length | 9 months (2026-2027 cohort) |
Official Links
Apply - BKR VC Fellowship Program 2026-2027
Programme overview - BKR Capital
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FAQs - BKR VC Fellowship Program 2026-2027
Is the fellowship free?
Yes. The programme is free, but attendance at all sessions is required to remain in the cohort.
Who can apply?
Black professionals in Canada with roughly 3 - 5 years of experience and a strong interest in venture capital. All industries are welcome.
Is it fully remote?
Classes are mainly virtual, with additional in-person industry events in Canadian hubs such as Toronto and Montreal.
When is the deadline?
12 September 2026. Always confirm on the official form before submitting.
Can I re-apply later?
Yes. BKR encourages unsuccessful applicants to apply again in future cohorts.
What is the social contract?
Each fellow must design and execute a give-back project related to the VC industry, with programme support.
