The Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027 is now inviting applications from experienced Internet change-makers and emerging leaders worldwide who are passionate about improving Internet access, connectivity, security, governance and digital inclusion.
Organised by the Internet Society, the 10-month fellowship provides participants with mentorship, leadership development, practical training, networking opportunities and project funding of up to USD $5,000 to develop and implement initiatives that address real-world Internet challenges.
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The programme is designed to equip emerging leaders and experienced professionals with the knowledge, technical skills and resources needed to create meaningful and lasting impact within their communities.
Interested applicants from eligible countries worldwide are encouraged to complete the mandatory pre-fellowship training before the application deadline.
Summary:
- Organisation: Internet Society
- Programme: Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027
- Duration: 10 Months
- Eligible Countries: Worldwide
- Funding: Project stipend of up to USD $5,000
- Benefits: Mentorship, project funding, travel support and leadership development
- Pre-Fellowship Training Deadline: 22 November 2026
- Fellowship Application Deadline: 18 December 2026
About the Internet Society Fellowship Program
The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a professional development initiative that supports individuals working to strengthen the Internet and promote its development globally.
The 10-month programme combines structured learning, pre-fellowship training, mentorship, expert engagement, leadership development and practical project implementation.
Selected fellows will work on projects addressing Internet-related challenges within their communities, countries or regions.
Through the programme, participants will gain practical experience, connect with a global network of Internet professionals and develop solutions that contribute to a stronger, more open, inclusive, secure and globally connected Internet.
Benefits of the Internet Society Fellowship Program
Successful applicants will enjoy several professional development and project implementation benefits, including:
- Project Funding: Access to project funding of up to USD $5,000, subject to submission and approval of the proposed project budget.
- Dedicated Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced professionals and experts aligned with their selected fellowship tracks.
- Travel Support: Financial support to attend relevant global or regional Internet events, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), AfPIF, NDSS Symposium and other approved events.
- Global Networking: Connect with Internet leaders, researchers, policymakers, technical professionals and other emerging change-makers.
- Leadership Development: Develop practical leadership, advocacy, communication and project management skills.
- Alumni Network: Gain opportunities to connect with the Internet Society Alumni Network.
- Practical Experience: Design and implement projects that address real-world Internet challenges.
Fellowship Tracks and Sub-Tracks
The fellowship is organised into three major tracks, each offering specialised learning and development opportunities.
1. Internet Policy and Mobilization
This track focuses on developing advocates who can influence Internet policies, engage relevant stakeholders and mobilise communities to create meaningful change.
Available sub-tracks:
- Internet Policy
- Community Mobilization
2. Internet Connectivity
This track supports technical champions working to improve Internet infrastructure, connectivity and access through sustainable technical solutions.
Available sub-tracks:
- Peering
- Community-Centered Connectivity
3. Internet Safety and Security
This track focuses on supporting cybersecurity researchers and advocates working to improve online safety, digital trust and Internet security.
Available sub-tracks:
- Systems Security
- Online Trust and Safety
Applicants are expected to select a fellowship track and sub-track that align with their experience, interests and proposed projects.
Fellowship Project Requirements
Every selected fellow is expected to develop and implement a practical project that contributes to Internet development within their community, country, region or area of expertise.
The project implementation period will last six months and must address an identifiable real-world challenge.
Proposed projects may include:
- Policy briefs and research reports.
- Community engagement and mobilisation initiatives.
- Technical training programmes and workshops.
- Internet infrastructure resources and implementation plans.
- Cybersecurity and online safety awareness campaigns.
- Practical toolkits and operational guides.
- Internet advocacy and community development initiatives.
Fellows will receive mentorship, expert guidance, structured reporting support and approved project funding to implement their initiatives.
Programme Modules and Training
The fellowship combines foundational learning with specialised training and professional development activities.
Participants will receive training in the following areas:
- Introduction to the Internet Society.
- Understanding the Internet Ecosystem.
- Leadership Development.
- Project Management.
- Advocacy.
- Communications.
- Sub-track-specific expert sessions.
- Mentor check-ins.
These modules are designed to strengthen participants’ technical knowledge, leadership abilities and capacity to develop sustainable Internet-related projects.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027, interested applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Select a preferred fellowship track and sub-track.
- Enrol in and complete the mandatory pre-fellowship training.
- Complete all required training modules before submitting a fellowship application.
- Develop a realistic project proposal that aligns with the Internet Society’s mission.
- Demonstrate strong English reading, speaking and writing skills.
- Have reliable Internet access and suitable equipment for virtual training sessions.
- Be available to participate in weekly programme sessions.
- Commit at least four hours per week throughout the 10-month fellowship.
- Possess a valid international passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates.
- Not currently be participating in the 2026 Internet Society Fellowship.
Applicants should carefully review all eligibility conditions before proceeding with their applications.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is particularly suitable for experienced Internet change-makers, emerging leaders and professionals interested in improving the global Internet ecosystem.
Individuals with experience or interests in the following areas are encouraged to consider applying:
- Internet governance and policy development.
- Internet connectivity and infrastructure.
- Cybersecurity and systems security.
- Online safety and digital trust.
- Community engagement and advocacy.
- Research, technical projects and training.
- Digital inclusion and Internet development.
Ideal candidates should understand local Internet challenges, demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with different stakeholders and show a genuine commitment to promoting an open, secure, inclusive and trustworthy Internet.
Important Application Information and Deadlines
The application process begins with mandatory pre-fellowship training. Applicants must complete the required training modules before gaining access to the fellowship application.
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Important dates include:
- Pre-Fellowship Training Registration Opens: 23 September 2026.
- Pre-Fellowship Training Period: 23 September – 22 November 2026.
- Training Completion Deadline: 22 November 2026.
- Fellowship Application Deadline: 18 December 2026.
Important: Applications are processed on a rolling basis. Eligible participants will receive the fellowship application link by email within 24 hours of completing the required training modules.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their fellowship applications promptly after receiving the application link rather than waiting until the final deadline.
Important Note on the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Applicants are permitted to use generative AI tools for brainstorming and structural editing during the application process.
However, all application essays and project proposals must reflect applicants’ authentic personal experiences, original ideas and individual perspectives.
Plagiarism and uncredited AI-generated submissions may affect an applicant’s eligibility. Applicants should ensure that their submissions accurately represent their knowledge, experiences and proposed project ideas.
