Snow Entrepreneurs – Fellowships for Social Change FAQs
How long is the Snow Entrepreneurs program?
Three years, with an initial two-year commitment and a formal review after two years.
How often do you take on a new cohort?
We plan to open applications for a new cohort every two years.
Is attendance at the retreats mandatory?
Yes, the retreats are a core part of the program. As entrepreneurs are based across the country, they’re our only opportunity to meet in person—essential for building strong relationships with peers and the Snow Foundation. We therefore expect all Snow Entrepreneurs to attend, unless unforeseen extenuating circumstances arise.
What do you mean by social purpose?
Initiatives must directly benefit disadvantaged or at-risk populations by enabling access, creating opportunities, or offering support to overcome disadvantages. Initiatives that fulfill their social purpose by donating a portion of their commercial revenue are not eligible.
How do you define innovation?
Initiatives should be different from existing approaches – that means they could represent a new approach, benefit a new group of users, or operate in a new context; they may also be more effective or efficient than existing approaches, be more viable or sustainable, or be more accessible for certain disadvantaged groups.
What do you mean by realistic?
Initiatives must demonstrate an understanding of the problem, landscape and business model and have a clear, feasible plan for growth and sustainability.
I’ve got a great idea for an initiative, can I apply?
If your initiative is not operating yet, you are not eligible to apply. Operating means that you must already have some people using your service or product and/or have built a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). This can be a pilot on a small scale.
My initiative has been operating for more than three years, can I apply?
If your initiative has been running for more than 3 years, you are not eligible. However, if your idea is older but operations began within the last three years, you may apply.
My initiative does not generate any fee-based revenue – can I still apply?
We are looking for entrepreneurial initiatives that either already generate some fee-based revenue or have a plan for doing so in the future. We believe that generating at least a portion of your income from fee-based revenue is essential for becoming sustainable.
Does my initiative need to be not-for-profit?
We accept applications from both for-profit and not-for-profit organisations / charities that meet the eligibility criteria. DGR (deductible gift recipient status) is not a requirement.
Is there a specific geographic area where my initiative must operate?
Your organisation must be registered in Australia, and your initiative should create impact within the country. We’re particularly interested in initiatives with potential for national reach, including benefiting communities in the ACT, Sydney, the NSW South Coast, and the NT (First Nations initiatives only).
Are there any exclusions?
There are many worthy causes, but as a Foundation we can’t support all of them. Therefore, we currently do not accept applications for initiatives focused primarily on environmental causes, animal welfare, arts and culture, or overseas beneficiaries.
Can I be a current or past grant recipient of Snow Foundation?
Yes, we accept applications from organisations that have received or are currently receiving funding from Snow Foundation.
I’m mostly interested in the funding, can I apply?
We seek individuals eager and ready to engage with the whole of the fellowships program, including the capacity-building elements and retreats, and actively engage with peers, the Snow Foundation team, mentors, and consultants.
My initiative sits outside your cause areas; can I still apply?
Yes, you may still be able to apply – we value diversity in the cohort and are interested in a wide range of initiatives that meet the eligibility criteria. However, in the selection we will prioritise initiatives that align with one of our cause areas as well as our themes: Gender, First Nations, Youth and LGBTIQ+.
Can only founders apply for the Snow Entrepreneurs fellowships?
We welcome applications from key decision makers within the organisation, such as founders and CEOs.
How do I apply?
Complete the online Expression of Interest form “Snow Entrepreneurs EOI 2025” at https://grants.snowfoundation.org.au/. You will need to set up a user account with your email address and choose a password.
When do applications close?
Expressions of Interest will close at 8am AEST on 16 June 2025. Note the 8am deadline!
What is the application process and timeline?
After reviewing all EOIs, we will consult subject matter experts and alumni on those that meet our criteria. If shortlisted, you will be invited to submit a full application by 8am AEST on 25 August 2025, including an online meeting with the Snow Foundation team and reference checks for due diligence.
From here, further shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online interview with the Final Selection Panel on 15 October 2025 – please keep this date free!
The Snow Foundation Board will make a final decision in mid-November, and applicants will be notified by the end of November.
Who is on the Final Selection Panel?
The Final Selection Panel comprises Snow Foundation Directors and external experts, who will conduct online interviews with shortlisted candidates on 15 October 2025.
When must I be available?
Please ensure you are available for online interviews with our team (September), the final Selection Panel interviews on 15 October 2025 and the 4-days/3-night leadership retreat in February 2026, should you be selected. Participation in the annual retreats is a core component of the program.
How can I contact the program for further inquiries?
You can contact us via email: enquiries@snowfoundation.org.au with “Snow Entrepreneurs fellowships” in the subject line.
Are there any upcoming information sessions?
Standard Grant Conditions
Please read the standard grant conditions:
The Snow Foundation strongly believes that the provision of a grant is part of a trusting relationship based on the shared aim of achieving the success of the project and The Snow Foundation’s mission.
This means that, amongst other things (including those set out in any grant agreement between you and the Snow Foundation):
- You must use the entire grant exclusively for the project as agreed with The Snow Foundation and described by your application. Grants should not be used for any other purposes without the Snow Foundation’s consent and otherwise in accordance with any grant agreement between you and the Snow Foundation.
- The provision of the grant is based on a strong level of trust, openness and mutual commitment in pursuing shared objectives and overcoming obstacles together.
- You, together with The Snow Foundation, are committed to honest and transparent communication with each other and acknowledge that there should be “no surprises”; as such, you commit to informing The Snow Foundation as soon as practicable about all matters the Foundation should reasonably be made aware of in connection with the project.
- Neither The Snow Foundation or you (or any of your employees and agents) may bring The Snow Foundation or you (as relevant) into disrepute in any way.