NextGen@ICANN88 Programme 2026: Fully Supported Opportunity for Young Students Interested in Internet Governance

Overview

The NextGen@ICANN88 Programme 2026 is a youth-focused initiative established to encourage greater participation by young people in the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) ecosystem. Selected participants will receive coaching, guidance, and financial support to attend the ICANN88 Community Forum, which takes place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 13–18 March 2027.

Participants are expected to engage meaningfully with the programme and deliver a 5–10-minute project presentation during the meeting, showcasing research, a thesis, or an Internet-related activity.

Benefits

International exposure within the global Internet governance community.
Coaching and guidance to understand ICANN and its broader ecosystem.
Economy-class airfare coverage.
Hotel accommodation support.
A stipend provided as part of the support package.
Networking opportunities and the chance to present a project.

Note: Participants are responsible for securing and funding their own visas, as well as any travel or health insurance costs.

Eligibility

Student Status: Must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral student.
Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 30 years of age at the time of the ICANN meeting.
Geographic Location: Must be currently living and studying in the region of the respective meeting (Europe region for ICANN88).
Interest: Must demonstrate a genuine interest in Internet governance, digital policy, technology, and related subjects.

How to Apply

Applicants must create an ICANN Account and complete their submission through the official application platform.

Deadline

Applications are open and must be submitted by 9 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC.

Overview

Benefits

International exposure within the global Internet governance community.

Coaching and guidance to understand ICANN and its broader ecosystem.

Economy-class airfare coverage.

Hotel accommodation support.

A stipend provided as part of the support package.

Networking opportunities and the chance to present a project.

Note: Participants are responsible for securing and funding their own visas, as well as any travel or health insurance costs.

Eligibility

Student Status: Must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral student.

Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 30 years of age at the time of the ICANN meeting.

Geographic Location: Must be currently living and studying in the region of the respective meeting (Europe region for ICANN88).

Interest: Must demonstrate a genuine interest in Internet governance, digital policy, technology, and related subjects.