Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship: Shape the Digital Future

Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship: A Deep Dive for Aspiring Digital Leaders

The digital world is constantly changing, and with it, the laws and policies that govern it. As technology advances at a rapid pace, there’s a growing need for skilled professionals who can understand and shape the rules around the internet. The Internet Law and Policy Foundry (ILPF) Fellowship is designed to cultivate these leaders. This two-year program offers a unique chance for emerging professionals to deepen their knowledge, expand their networks, and contribute to important discussions about the future of the internet.

This fellowship is ideal for students, researchers, legal experts, policy makers, academics, advocates, and technology professionals who are passionate about areas like internet governance, digital rights, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and privacy. It provides a structured environment for growth and engagement in a field that is critical to our global society.

About the Internet Law and Policy Foundry

The Internet Law and Policy Foundry is an organization focused on developing future leaders in internet law and technology policy. They achieve this through mentorship, networking, collaborative projects, events, publications, and committee work. The Foundry aims to create a space where different viewpoints can meet to discuss and solve current digital policy issues. A key goal is to identify promising individuals from diverse backgrounds and help them become influential voices in technology policy. They actively seek out people with varied experiences and perspectives, understanding that effective internet governance requires collaboration across many disciplines.

Fellowship Structure and Expectations

The ILPF Fellowship is a two-year, unpaid professional development program. While most activities are done remotely, fellows often connect in person with others in their region when opportunities arise. They may also attend major technology policy events and conferences, including gatherings with the broader Foundry community. Junior Fellows are expected to dedicate about 3 to 5 hours each week to fellowship activities, programming, and committee tasks. Although there is no strict residency requirement, most Foundry activities take place during North American business hours, particularly Eastern Time. Successful applicants should be prepared to contribute during these times.

Committee Opportunities for Skill Development

All applicants must rank their preferred committee assignments. These committees are essential to the Foundry’s mission and offer fellows valuable leadership and professional growth experiences.

Tech Policy Grind Podcast Committee

This committee is responsible for the production and content of the Foundry’s podcast. Members help choose discussion topics, arrange guest speakers, develop episode ideas, and work on outreach. This role provides practical experience in media production, thought leadership, engaging with stakeholders, and policy communication.

Events & Fundraising Committee

The Events & Fundraising Committee plans and carries out many of the Foundry’s main programs and networking events. Committee members assist in organizing conferences, professional gatherings, hackathons, social events, sponsorship activities, and other initiatives that connect the technology policy community.

Editorial & Content Committee

This committee focuses on creating original written content for publication. Fellows contribute articles, policy analyses, legal commentary, opinion pieces, case summaries, technical guides, and other thought leadership materials. It’s a great opportunity for those looking to improve their research, writing, and policy communication abilities.

Communications & Marketing Committee

Members of this committee support the Foundry’s outreach efforts. This includes developing newsletters, managing branding, engaging on social media, maintaining the website, and handling professional communications. Fellows gain hands-on experience in strategic communications while helping to spread the word about the Foundry’s work.

Benefits of Applying for the Fellowship

The Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship offers a special chance to join a dynamic network of professionals who are shaping the future of technology governance. The benefits include access to a global network of technology policy professionals, opportunities for professional development and leadership, and collaboration with experts from law, government, academia, civil society, and industry. Fellows can also expect opportunities to publish their original work, participate in technology policy events, and develop practical skills in areas like communications, policy analysis, event management, research, and advocacy. The program provides exposure to new issues in internet governance and technology regulation, along with long-term career development support.

Key Areas of Focus for the Fellowship

The fellowship is particularly beneficial for individuals interested in a range of critical digital policy areas. These include Artificial Intelligence Governance, Internet Governance, Cybersecurity Policy, Data Privacy and Protection, Platform Accountability, Digital Rights, Telecommunications Policy, Content Moderation, Online Safety, Technology Regulation, Digital Trade, and Emerging Technology Law. Engaging with these topics through the fellowship can provide a strong foundation for a career in this evolving field.

Application Timeline and How to Apply

Applications for the 2026-2028 Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship opened on June 1, 2026, and the deadline is June 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET). Selection results are expected in mid-July 2026. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so submitting early is recommended.

To apply, candidates must complete an online application form. They will also need to submit their resume or CV in PDF format, rank their committee preferences, and answer several essay questions. These essays will focus on technology policy, leadership, diversity, and professional interests. Applicants are also asked to explain how their unique experiences and perspectives can contribute to the Foundry community and promote diversity and inclusion within the internet law and policy field. For professionals and students looking for meaningful involvement in technology governance, policy development, and digital innovation, this fellowship is a valuable path to build expertise, expand networks, and help shape the future of the digital world.

Deadline: June 22, 2026

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