Are you a journalist or researcher passionate about fixing biases in tech? The Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026 offers $35,000 to support projects that promote equity in technology. This program targets professionals who want to expose problems in AI, tech policy, and innovation, helping to create fairer systems for everyone.
About the Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship
The Kapor Foundation runs this fellowship to back journalists and tech policy researchers. Their goal is to spotlight systemic inequities in tech and push for better policies. Fellows get funding to dive deep into issues like AI ethics and inclusive tech development.
Applications are open on a rolling basis. The first awards will come out by June 30, 2026. Up to 15 people will receive support for work focused on national topics or specific cities like Oakland, Atlanta, or Detroit.
Focus Areas
Projects must fit into one or more key areas. These guide the fellowship’s priorities.
CS/AI Education
This area looks at ways to make computer science and AI classes available to more people. It covers gaps in learning paths for tech skills. Fellows can study policies that build ethical AI education.
Innovation
Here, the focus is on safe AI and tech advances. Researchers examine the upsides and downsides of AI funding. The program also supports business setups that include diverse entrepreneurs.
Governance
This tackles rules for tech companies. It includes fights against bias in algorithms and privacy issues with data. Protecting groups often harmed by tech is a big part of it.
Funding and Benefits
Each fellow gets $35,000 to fund their project. This covers research or reporting costs. In return, fellows produce reports or studies that can shape policies and spark change in tech.
The funding helps create work with real impact. Outputs must be published, reaching wide audiences.
Eligibility Criteria
For Investigative Reporting Fellows
You need to be a U.S.-based journalist, either on staff or freelance. At least five years of investigative work is required. You must have a commitment from a media outlet to publish your story.
For Tech Policy Research Fellows
Researchers must work with U.S.-based nonprofits, like 501(c)(3) groups. Experience in CS/AI education or tech policy is key.
Application Requirements
To apply, gather these items:
- A bio up to 250 words.
- Your CV or resume.
- Two samples of past published work.
- A project proposal of 2 to 5 pages.
- A timeline and plan for sharing your results.
- A short research summary.
- Extra docs, like an editor’s letter for journalists.
Submit everything through the online portal. Follow their formatting rules closely.
Fellowship Expectations
Once selected, fellows must finish strong, publishable work. They send progress reports and final pieces. Credit the Kapor Foundation in outputs. They also plan ways to spread their findings far and wide.
How to Apply
Prepare your materials and head to the Kapor Foundation’s portal. Applications roll in until filled, with first picks by June 30, 2026. Check the official site for details: Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship. The application link is here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the funding amount for the Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship?
Each fellow receives $35,000 to support their research or reporting project on tech equity.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
U.S.-based journalists with five years of investigative experience and a publication commitment, or researchers affiliated with U.S. nonprofits focused on CS/AI education or tech policy.
What are the key focus areas of the fellowship?
Projects can cover CS/AI education, innovation in safe AI and diverse entrepreneurship, and governance issues like algorithm bias and data privacy.
How and when can I apply for the 2026 fellowship?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via the online portal; first awards are announced by June 30, 2026. Submit a bio, CV, work samples, proposal, timeline, and other required documents.
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