Tech Policy Press is now accepting applications for its 2026 Fellowship Program, a year-long, part-time opportunity designed to support independent reporting and analysis at the intersection of technology and democracy.
Since its inception in 2023, the fellowship has supported 15 fellows from seven countries, enabling them to explore pressing topics including AI governance, digital rights, tech regulation, and corporate-state power dynamics.
For the upcoming 2026 cohort, Tech Policy Press aims to support journalists, researchers, lawyers, and public policy professionals to produce public-interest work that informs both the general public and policymakers on critical issues surrounding technology.
Scope and Focus
The fellowship supports in-depth, independent projects that examine the impact of technology on democracy, society, and public interest. Projects may range from investigative reporting and feature writing to policy analysis or academic-style commentary.
Tech Policy Press is especially interested in proposals that:
- Focus on underreported issues
- Center voices and perspectives from marginalized or underrepresented communities
- Address global or non-Western tech policy concerns
- Offer original insights or critical frameworks for understanding power in the digital age
Fellowship Structure
- Duration: January 2026 – December 2026
- Work Arrangement: Remote, part-time, as independent contractors
- Stipend: USD $10,000, disbursed quarterly
- Support Provided:
- Editorial guidance and feedback
- Monthly cohort meetings
- Peer collaboration and networking
- Access to an international community of fellows
Fellow Expectations
Fellows are expected to:
- Produce at least one substantial piece of reporting or analysis monthly
- Attend monthly cohort meetings and editorial check-ins
- Collaborate with other fellows and Tech Policy Press editorial staff
- Meet all publishing deadlines and editorial standards
- Disclose any conflicts of interest
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Journalists, including freelancers and reporters at independent outlets
- Researchers and academics with a focus on technology and policy
- Public policy professionals, lawyers, and advocates working in areas related to digital governance, rights, or ethics
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong interest or background in tech policy, media, digital rights, or democratic institutions
- A commitment to producing high-quality, original public-interest work
- The ability to work independently and manage long-term projects
Eligibility Highlights
- Open to applicants worldwide, with a special emphasis on individuals from the Global Majority and underrepresented communities
- Candidates must be able to contribute original, publishable work
- Prior publishing experience is required (see below for details)
Required Materials:
- CV or resume
- Cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining:
- The issue you want to explore
- Why you are qualified to report on or analyze it
- What impact you hope your work will have
- Links to prior publications
- Must be publicly accessible and clearly attributed to the applicant
- May include journalism, policy analysis, essays, podcasts, newsletters, or research articles
- Unpublished materials (e.g., theses, classwork) will not be considered
Application Process
Apply via the official application form (link to be provided in original announcement). Applications must follow the required format; additional unsolicited material will not be reviewed.
Selection Process and Timeline
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual interview
- Fellows will be notified of their acceptance by early December 2025
- The program begins January 2026 and runs for 12 months
Information Sessions
Two virtual sessions will be held to answer questions about the program:
- September 9, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. EDT
- September 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. EDT
Advance registration is required to attend.
Benefits of the Fellowship
- Financial support for long-form, in-depth projects
- Regular editorial mentorship and community feedback
- A platform for publishing work on Tech Policy Press
- Opportunities for wider exposure via the Tech Policy Press newsletter, podcast, and events
- Connection to an international network of fellows, editors, and tech policy thought leaders
Questions about the fellowship can be directed to:
[email protected]
For technical issues or further information, consult the FAQs on the Tech Policy Press website or join one of the scheduled info sessions.
This fellowship presents a unique opportunity for professionals and storytellers to investigate how technology shapes society—and to publish work that can inform the global conversation on democracy, equity, and digital power.
