Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027: $5,000 Project Stipend, Mentorship and Global Internet Leadership Opportunity
The 10-month Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027 is a global leadership initiative for Internet changemakers that combines pre-fellowship training, specialized learning, and project implementation.
Overview
The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a redesigned 10-month experience for Internet changemakers, practitioners, and emerging leaders who want to develop practical solutions to real-world Internet challenges in their communities. The program features a unique two-stage pathway where prospective candidates must first complete a mandatory training period before becoming eligible to apply for the fellowship itself. The curriculum is organized across three primary tracks:
- Internet Policy and Mobilization (Sub-tracks: Internet Policy, Community Mobilization)
- Internet Connectivity (Sub-tracks: Peering, Community-Centered Connectivity)
- Internet Safety and Security (Sub-tracks: Systems Security, Online Trust and Safety)
Benefits
- A project stipend of up to US$5,000, subject to the submission and approval of a project budget.
- Travel support to attend a relevant global or regional Internet event, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), AfPIF, or the NDSS Symposium.
- Dedicated mentorship matched to your selected track and project area.
- Access to a global network of Internet leaders and the Internet Society Alumni Network.
- Practical project development experience over a six-month execution window.
Eligibility
Applicants are expected to demonstrate local knowledge combined with a broad awareness of Internet ecosystem issues. General requirements include:
- High proficiency in reading, speaking, and writing in English.
- Continuous Internet access and appropriate equipment for virtual meetings, online training, and program requirements.
- Availability to dedicate a minimum of four hours per week during the 10-month program timeline.
- A valid passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship travel dates.
- Not currently participating in a 2026 Internet Society fellowship.
- The program is global in orientation and does not state specific nationality or country restrictions, welcoming candidates from diverse geographical, gender, and age backgrounds.
How to Apply
Participation requires completing a mandatory preparatory phase before submitting a fellowship application:
- Enroll in the free Pre-Fellowship Training period, which runs from 23 September 2026 to 22 November 2026.
- Complete the required self-paced online modules for your chosen track and sub-track, and formulate a realistic project plan.
- Upon successfully completing the training requirements, receive the fellowship application link by email.
- Submit the official fellowship application along with your project proposal.
Deadline
There are two key dates to keep in mind for the 2027 cycle:
- Pre-Fellowship Training Completion Deadline: 22 November 2026
- Final Fellowship Application Deadline: 18 December 2026 (Applications are accepted on a rolling basis following training completion)