EV

Emergent Ventures

Global

by Mercatus Center at George Mason University

A fellowship fund by Tyler Cowen and the Mercatus Center that supports ambitious projects across every domain — from science and technology to the arts and social innovation.

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Funding

$1K – $50K

Duration

Varies by project

Geography

Global

Eligibility

Open to anyone in the world, of any age, working on any ambitious project. There are no academic, professional, or geographic restrictions.

Application

Rolling

EntrepreneurshipScience & ResearchAny FieldDeep TechSocial Impact

About This Fellowship

Emergent Ventures is a fellowship fund run by economist Tyler Cowen at the Mercatus Center, George Mason University. Since its launch in 2018, the program has funded hundreds of ambitious individuals and projects worldwide, with grants ranging from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 or more. Unlike most fellowships, Emergent Ventures has no thematic restrictions — the only criterion is that the applicant is working on something genuinely ambitious and high-potential.

What makes Emergent Ventures distinctive is its speed and lack of bureaucracy. Applications are short, decisions come quickly (often within weeks), and the fund deliberately avoids the overhead of traditional grant-making. Tyler Cowen personally reviews every application, looking for a combination of talent, drive, and an idea that could shift the trajectory of a field. Past recipients include teenage scientists, first-time founders, investigative journalists, and independent researchers.

The program has expanded to include sub-tracks such as Emergent Ventures India and prizes for specific breakthroughs, making it one of the most flexible and impactful micro-grant programs in the world.

What You Get

Emergent Ventures provides direct financial support with minimal strings attached. The size and form of support are tailored to each recipient.

  • Grants typically range from $1,000 to $50,000, with exceptional cases receiving more
  • Funding can support travel, research, prototyping, living expenses, or whatever the project needs
  • Some recipients receive a fellowship visit to George Mason University to work alongside the Mercatus team
  • No equity is taken and there are no repayment obligations
  • Access to a growing alumni network of ambitious builders and thinkers

Selection Process

The selection process is intentionally streamlined. Tyler Cowen reviews applications personally, prioritizing ambition and potential impact over credentials.

  • Applications are short — a few paragraphs describing you, your project, and how the funds would be used
  • There is no formal interview process for most grants, though Tyler may reach out with follow-up questions
  • Decisions are typically made within 2–6 weeks
  • The program values unconventional backgrounds and contrarian thinking
  • Previous grants or institutional affiliations are not required

How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the Mercatus Center website. There is no deadline — you can apply at any time with any kind of ambitious project.

  • Visit the Emergent Ventures page on the Mercatus Center website
  • Fill out the short application form describing your project and funding needs
  • Include links to any prior work, writing, or relevant background
  • Specify the amount you are requesting and how you plan to use it
  • You may re-apply if your first application is not funded

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