Apply for Tech Policy Press Remote Fellowship Program 2026 ($10,000 Stipend) - NAIJA STICK

Apply for Tech Policy Press Remote Fellowship Program 2026 ($10,000 Stipend)

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:

fellows@techpolicy.press

Deadline: October 15, 2025

How to Apply 

Interested applicant can apply via this link 

Apply Now