Early Career Fellowship

Organization Overview:
The Internet is a global resource that has transformed how we work, learn, and communicate. Its evolution has been guided by an ethos of openness and collaboration. The Early Career Fellowship empowers a new, diverse generation of Internet champions to bridge technology and policy, advocating for an open, secure, and trustworthy Internet.

Program Overview:
The fellowship provides fellows with:

• Access to leading experts, including Professor Dr. Laura DeNardis (American University) and scholars from the Oxford Internet Institute.

• Training in leadership, communications, advocacy, and project management.

• Networking, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities.

• Seminars, courses, discussion sessions, and project work, culminating in a final project presentation at a closing symposium.

Program Duration:
Six months, with a cohort of 15 fellows selected annually.

Eligibility:

• Early career professionals in the Internet ecosystem (technical, policy, economic, or social fields).

• Undergraduate/vocational degree or at least three years of relevant work experience.

• Less than ten years of professional experience in an Internet-related field.

• Innovative project proposal for growing or strengthening the Internet.

• Reliable broadband access and relevant devices.

• Proficiency in verbal and written English.

• Availability to commit at least six hours per week to program activities.

Requirements:

• Complete six months of program participation.

• Attend all seminars and sessions, managing time zone differences.

• Submit and execute a project proposal during the fellowship.

Key Dates – 2026 Cohort:

• Application Opens: 29 January 2026

• Application Closes: 17 February 2026

• Fellows Announced: By 2 April 2026

• Cohort Kickoff: 5 April 2026

How to Apply:
Complete the Online Application Form. Applications are reviewed confidentially through a multi-step evaluation process, ensuring professional, geographical, and gender diversity in the selection of fellows.

Contact:
For questions, reach out to the fellowship program via the official application portal.