In today’s fast-changing digital era, technology does not just shape how we communicate—it actively influences politics, governance, human rights, and the future of democracy. From issues like online misinformation and privacy breaches to questions of artificial intelligence governance, the intersection of technology and policy is becoming one of the most crucial battlegrounds of our time.
To support professionals who want to engage in this critical space, Tech Policy Press has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 Fellowship Program. This highly competitive fellowship offers journalists, researchers, policy experts, and advocates the opportunity to work closely with an international network of peers while contributing thought-provoking work on the connections between technology, society, and democracy.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the fellowship—from eligibility requirements and benefits to the application process and why this opportunity is worth pursuing.
What Is the Tech Policy Press Fellowship?
The Tech Policy Press Fellowship is a year-long, part-time, remote program designed for professionals who want to explore and shape the global conversation on how technology impacts governance, rights, and public life.
Tech Policy Press, the nonprofit media platform behind the fellowship, is known for curating some of the most important debates on tech and democracy. Its fellowship program is therefore more than just funding—it is a platform to research, write, publish, and influence the future of tech policy.
Why This Fellowship Matters in 2026
We live in an age where:
- Social media drives elections but also spreads disinformation.
- Artificial intelligence systems are transforming work, justice, and education, but pose risks of bias and inequality.
- Surveillance technologies are becoming tools for governments and corporations, raising serious privacy concerns.
- Digital platforms wield more power than many nation-states, affecting speech, commerce, and rights.
These are not abstract issues—they affect ordinary people across the world, particularly in developing nations where tech adoption is fast but governance structures lag behind.
The Tech Policy Press Fellowship is therefore aimed at amplifying diverse voices, especially those from the Global Majority and underrepresented communities, to ensure the global debate is inclusive and solutions-driven.
Fellowship Benefits
One of the highlights of the fellowship is that it is fully funded and structured to encourage meaningful contributions without overwhelming participants.
- Stipend: Each fellow receives $10,000, paid in quarterly installments throughout the program.
- Publishing Opportunity: Fellows produce at least one original article or analysis per month, published on Tech Policy Press.
- Networking: Fellows join a global cohort, exchanging ideas and receiving feedback from peers and editors.
- Mentorship & Guidance: Monthly editorial check-ins help fellows refine their ideas and improve the quality of their work.
- Professional Growth: Fellows build an impressive portfolio of thought leadership that enhances their academic, journalistic, or policy careers.
Who Should Apply?
The program welcomes applications from a wide range of professionals, including:
- Journalists who cover technology, politics, governance, or social justice.
- Researchers and academics working on digital rights, internet governance, or emerging technologies.
- Lawyers and policy professionals interested in regulation, ethics, or governance of technology.
- Advocates and civil society leaders championing democratic values in the digital age.
What matters most is that applicants:
- Have a clear focus area they want to explore.
- Can commit to monthly writing and participation.
- Are passionate about the intersection of technology, democracy, and society.
Fellowship Expectations
The fellowship is designed to be flexible but structured. Here’s what participants can expect:
- Monthly Deliverables: At least one well-researched article, essay, or report per month.
- Cohort Meetings: Fellows meet for an hour-long cohort discussion each month to exchange feedback and refine ideas.
- Editorial Support: Each fellow will have a monthly check-in with an editor to guide their work.
- Collaboration & Accountability: Fellows must meet deadlines, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and contribute to a collaborative knowledge-building community.
Application Requirements
To apply, candidates must prepare the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume – highlighting relevant experience.
- Cover Letter (max 2 pages): This should explain your background, your motivation for applying, and a clear proposal of your intended area of focus during the fellowship.
- Links to Previous Work: Applicants must share published articles, papers, or research that demonstrate their ability to produce thoughtful and credible work.
Important Dates and Timeline
- Information Sessions:
- September 9, 2025 (9:00 a.m. EDT)
- September 16, 2025 (7:00 p.m. EDT)
These Zoom sessions will allow applicants to ask questions and learn more about the program.
- Application Deadline:
- October 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EDT
- Notification of Results:
- Successful applicants will be contacted by early December 2025.
- Fellowship Duration:
- Runs from January 2026 – December 2026 (12 months).
Why You Should Consider Applying
This fellowship is not just another academic or professional opportunity—it’s a platform to:
- Shape the debate around technology and democracy.
- Gain international visibility through publishing in a respected policy outlet.
- Receive financial support while developing your expertise.
- Join a community of like-minded professionals who are passionate about building a more equitable digital future.
For professionals from the Global South, this program is especially valuable as it prioritizes diverse, underrepresented voices. It ensures that global policy discussions reflect perspectives beyond Silicon Valley and Western Europe.
Final Thoughts
The Tech Policy Press Fellowship Program 2026 is a rare and exciting opportunity for anyone committed to advancing thoughtful discussions on technology’s impact on democracy and society. Whether you are a journalist uncovering digital disinformation, a lawyer analyzing tech regulations, or a researcher exploring artificial intelligence ethics, this fellowship provides both the resources and the platform to amplify your voice.
If you are passionate about ensuring technology serves democracy rather than undermines it, this fellowship is for you.
📌 Application closes on October 15, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute—start preparing your documents and proposal now.
👉 Apply directly via the official Tech Policy Press Fellowship page
