The Internet Society is accepting participants for its Fellowship Program, a 10-month learning and leadership initiative supporting emerging and experienced Internet leaders to develop locally grounded projects and strengthen the Internet in their communities.
The programme combines training, mentorship, practical project implementation, engagement with experts and participation in Internet community events. Prospective fellows must first complete the required Pre-Fellowship Training by November 22, 2026 before becoming eligible to submit a fellowship application.
Fellowship Tracks
Participants can pursue one of three main tracks, each offering specialised areas of focus:
- Internet Policy and Mobilization: Internet Policy | Community Mobilization
- Internet Connectivity: Peering | Community-Centered Connectivity
- Internet Safety and Security: Systems Security | Online Trust and Safety
The tracks accommodate different backgrounds, from policy advocates and community organisers to network infrastructure professionals and cybersecurity researchers.
What Selected Fellows Receive
- Fellows accepted into the programme receive a dedicated mentor aligned with their project area and selected track.
- They can also access a project stipend of up to $5,000, subject to submission and approval of a project budget.
- Travel support is available for participation in a relevant global or regional Internet event, which could include the Internet Governance Forum, African Peering and Interconnection Forum or NDSS Symposium.
- Fellows also join a global community of Internet leaders and gain access to the Internet Society Alumni Network.
How to Become Eligible
- Prospective applicants must first enrol in and successfully complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training modules.
- Completion of the training does not guarantee acceptance into the Fellowship. Once training completion is confirmed, eligible participants will receive the Fellowship Program application link by email within 24 hours.
Fellowship applications are considered on a rolling basis.