ESSLIP — Emerging Social Sector Leaders’ Ideation Program
A hybrid incubation program for early-stage nonprofit founders (0–3 years). Tailored for individuals or co-founders building new impact-driven initiatives.
ESSLIP is a cohort-based virtual incubation program designed for early-stage nonprofit founders (0–3 years). It is strictly limited to individuals or co-founders who are at the cusp of instituting impact-driven change in their communities.
Program Components
- Organizational Ideation & Design
- Strategic Planning
- Impact Modelling
- Fundraising & Resource Mobilization
- Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning
- Leadership Development
- Mentorship from Global Experts
Who Should Apply
- Individuals launching a nonprofit
- Co-founders building a new initiative
- Practitioners seeking structure, clarity, and support
Outcome
Graduates leave with a validated organizational blueprint and become eligible for the CEDEP Start-up Grant Scheme.
CELP — CEO Executive Leadership Program
A masterclass series for Executive Directors, CEOs, and senior nonprofit leaders focused on governance, strategy, and executive decision-making.
Overview
A 1 to 2-day masterclass series for Executive Directors, CEOs, and Senior Nonprofit Executives.
Focus Areas
- Corporate Governance
- Executive Decision-Making
- Organizational Sustainability
- Leadership Ethics
- Board Management
- Strategic Communication
Outcome
Participants gain advanced leadership and governance skills to strengthen their organizations and scale their impact
Startup Grant Scheme (SGS)
Micro-grants awarded to outstanding ESSLIP fellows with sustainable project ideas.
Grant Range – $50–$1,000
Eligibility
ESSLIP graduates who demonstrate:
- Exceptional Commitment
- Strong Participation
- Sustainable Project Ideas
Process
- Proposal Submission
- Screening by CEDEP Grants Academy
- Tranche-Based Disbursement
- Ongoing Mentorship
Outcome
Funding support to help early-stage initiatives grow and achieve measurable impact.
ESSLIP Alumni Dinner & Awards
An annual celebration of alumni impact, featuring a $1,000 Outstanding Fellow Award.
Overview
An annual celebration of the achievements of ESSLIP fellows.
Event Highlights
- Networking
- Recognition of Alumni Impact
- Awards in Multiple Categories
- $1,000 Outstanding Fellow Award
Outcome
Strengthening alumni ties and amplifying visibility for their work.
Testimonials
CEDEP transformed the way I think about development. The focus on dignity changed everything.
ESSLIP gave me the structure and confidence to launch my organization.
I went back to the drawing board and reviewed my projects as a result of the new things i learnt
My leadership potentials were optimally harnessed towards the growth of my organization
