Patterson Fellows is a prospective new initiative, potentially launching in 2026. This cohort-based model will support high-caliber, high-impact entrepreneurs for a three-year period, with the goal of igniting viable, scalable companies for change in rural communities.
The Patterson Fellows program would form annual cohorts of 5-10 Fellows to create an ecosystem of entrepreneurs and mentors helping other rural-focused entrepreneurs. Fellows will receive training and professional development, as well as have regular check-ins with their Patterson Fellows leader, mentors, and other fellows throughout the three-year fellowship.
A network of consultants, mentors, and other Fellows will support the Patterson Fellows in scaling their company. Upon graduation, the goal would be that each Fellow would have a self-sustaining business.
Any entrepreneur focused on solving systemic problems within the Patterson Family Foundation catchment would be eligible to submit an application for the Patterson Fellows program. Entrepreneurs should show a commitment to building a business that supports rural prosperity through initiatives that enrich and stabilize rural populations.
The Patterson Family Foundation will consider applications from for-profit businesses and non-profit businesses with the potential for non-grant sustainability within three years.
Examples of business focus within the Patterson Family Foundation catchment may include:
Creating new sustainable models for delivering community information
Developing telehealth platforms, mobile clinics, and other virtual health services
Finding new ways to supply fresh food to areas not served by a grocery store
Establishing cost-effective housing options
Curating grocery and medicine delivery systems or microtransit coordination platforms
Connecting employees within our catchment to good jobs anywhere
Developing affordable digital agriculture tools, shared equipment models, or other new solutions to meet modern needs
The Patterson Family Foundation is actively seeking Fellows for the inaugural cohort. This cohort will set the precedent for the entire program, and these trailblazers will make an impact on rural communities.
If you are interested in applying or know someone else who would be a great fit, please submit a short form of interest. We will reach out to you when the program application opens with more details.
