2027 Collaborative Discussion Emerging Fellowship: $6,000 Stipend, Training Scholarship and Mentorship for Community Leaders

Overview

The Interactivity Foundation (IF) is accepting applications for its 2027 Collaborative Discussion Emerging Fellowship, a year-long program for people committed to collaborative discussion, democratic engagement and community leadership. The Collaborative Discussion Project (CDP) was created by dialogue and deliberation experts, practitioners and educators, and it looks at how people can think more effectively together. The fellowship aims to widen awareness of the project among diverse communities.

Emerging Fellows are paired with experienced Senior Fellows and work for a year on strengthening dialogue and taking action in communities.

What you get

Each fellow receives a $6,000 stipend paid in three installments, plus a full scholarship to the Collaborative Discussion Project Coach Training, valued at $495. Travel and expenses are covered for two in-person gatherings. Fellows also get mentorship from a Senior Fellow, monthly virtual meetings with a network of mentors and peers, and co-author credit on a publication, curriculum or audiovisual project.

What fellows do

Fellows carry out a community project that brings collaborative discussion into a real setting. Examples include designing and delivering a workshop, creating a Collaborative Discussion certificate program, developing a new activity for the project Toolkit, or introducing the project to new audiences. They also produce a publication, video or new curriculum that supports the Foundation's mission.

Who can apply

The Foundation looks for a demonstrated commitment to collaborative discussion and/or strengthening democracy within a particular community. It welcomes people from a broad range of backgrounds, careers, ages, identities, political affiliations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, religions and socioeconomic circumstances. Applicants who have not had an opportunity like this before are specifically encouraged. Relevant fields include community leadership, civic engagement, dialogue and deliberation, education, youth development, community organizing and facilitation.

Requirements

Because the fellowship involves paid services performed in the United States, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for the entire fellowship period. The Interactivity Foundation does not sponsor or obtain employment authorization. People outside the United States should consider this carefully before applying.