The Rockefeller Foundation invites applications for the 2027 Bellagio Center Residency Program, a prestigious initiative supporting global leaders working on ideas and projects that advance the well-being of humanity.
Hosted at the Rockefeller Foundation’s Bellagio Center on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, the residency brings together scholars, artists, and practitioners from diverse disciplines to collaborate, reflect, and advance breakthrough work addressing pressing global challenges.
Selected residents join a small interdisciplinary cohort and spend 26 days in residence at the Bellagio Center, where they can focus on advancing their projects while engaging with peers from around the world.
The residency is open to experienced leaders across a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Academics and Scholars: University and think tank researchers, professors, and scientists working across disciplines.
- Artists and Writers: Creatives including authors, poets, composers, filmmakers, musicians, visual artists, and other practitioners producing work that inspires social change.
- Practitioners: Senior-level nonprofit leaders, journalists, policy advocates, and private-sector leaders working on initiatives addressing global challenges.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Significant achievement and recognition in their field
- A track record of advancing innovative ideas or impactful work
- Alignment with The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission to promote the well-being of humanity
- Openness to collaboration and exchange within a diverse global cohort
Program Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- A 26-day residency at the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center in Lake Como, Italy
- Accommodation, meals, and a private workspace for focused work
- Travel funding to and from the residency
- Participation in a global interdisciplinary cohort of scholars, artists, and practitioners
- Ongoing engagement with the Bellagio Center alumni network
Types of Projects Supported
The residency supports projects that contribute to public knowledge and social impact. These may include:
- Research leading to academic publications or books
- Creative works that inspire social awareness and action
- Policy proposals, advocacy initiatives, or organisational strategies addressing global challenges
