ICANN Fellowship Program: Fellowship participants come from a variety of backgrounds
The ICANN Fellowship Program 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for individuals who want to become active contributors to the future of the Internet. The programme supports participants from underserved and underrepresented communities by providing training, mentorship, and financial support to attend ICANN Public Meetings.
Whether you are interested in Internet governance, domain names, cybersecurity, digital policy, or technology, this fellowship offers a unique platform to learn from global experts while building an international professional network.
About the ICANN Fellowship Program 2027
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) created the Fellowship Program to strengthen global participation in its multistakeholder model of Internet governance. The programme helps individuals understand how Internet policies are developed while encouraging meaningful participation in ICANN’s global community.
Fellows receive training before, during, and after an ICANN Public Meeting. Each participant is paired with a mentor who provides guidance throughout the fellowship journey.
What Does the Fellowship Cover?
Successful fellows receive comprehensive support that may include:
- Travel assistance to attend an ICANN Public Meeting
- Hotel accommodation
- Mentorship from experienced ICANN community members
- Access to training sessions
- Professional development opportunities
- Networking with Internet governance experts
- Participation in ICANN Fellowship activities
If an ICANN meeting is held virtually, the fellowship programme will also be conducted virtually.
Who Can Apply?
The ICANN Fellowship Program welcomes applicants from all regions of the world and across different professional sectors.
The programme is particularly suitable for individuals who:
- Come from underserved or underrepresented communities.
- Have an interest in Internet governance.
- Want to contribute to domain name policy development.
- Are interested in the security and stability of the global Internet.
- Are committed to participating actively in the ICANN community.
Both newcomers and individuals who have already engaged with ICANN’s work are encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Requirements
Successful applicants are expected to:
- Participate in the Fellowship mentoring programme.
- Complete required ICANN Learn courses.
- Attend all required fellowship sessions during the ICANN Public Meeting.
- Network with fellows, alumni, and members of the ICANN community.
- Complete the post-meeting survey.
After completing the programme, fellows are encouraged to remain active within the ICANN community and contribute to policy development processes.
Benefits of Joining the ICANN Fellowship Program
The fellowship provides participants with valuable opportunities to:
- Learn about global Internet governance.
- Gain practical knowledge of ICANN’s multistakeholder model.
- Build leadership and communication skills.
- Develop an international professional network.
- Work alongside experts from governments, academia, civil society, business, and the technical community.
- Enhance their understanding of Internet policy and digital governance.
These experiences can strengthen both professional development and future career opportunities in technology and digital policy.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the official ICANN Fellowship application portal.
Before submitting your application, make sure you:
- Create an ICANN Account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide accurate personal and professional information.
- Submit your application before the application deadline.
Applicants should carefully review all programme requirements before applying.
Application Dates
Applications are currently open for the ICANN88 Community Forum, which will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 13 to 18 March 2027.
Important dates include:
- Applications opened: 21 July 2026
- Application deadline: 21 August 2026 at 23:59 UTC
- Successful candidates announced: 10 November 2026
Future fellowship rounds will open for subsequent ICANN meetings during 2027.
Why You Should Apply
The ICANN Fellowship Program 2027 is much more than a funded travel opportunity. It is a gateway into the global Internet governance community, where participants gain knowledge, mentorship, and practical experience that can shape their careers.
If you are passionate about digital policy, Internet infrastructure, cybersecurity, or technology governance, this fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to learn from international experts while representing your community on a global platform.
Final Thoughts
The ICANN Fellowship Program 2027 is one of the world’s leading fellowships for aspiring Internet governance professionals. Through financial support, mentoring, and direct participation in ICANN Public Meetings, the programme equips participants with the skills and networks needed to make meaningful contributions to the future of the Internet.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your application early and submit it before the deadline. This could be your opportunity to join a global community working to shape the future of the Internet
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