Ian Axford Fellowship 2027: Fully Funded Policy Program for US Professionals
The Ian Axford Fellowship 2027 offers mid-career professionals from the United States a chance to dive into public policy in New Zealand. This fully funded program lasts 3 to 5 months and places fellows in government agencies in Wellington. It builds stronger ties between the US and New Zealand through shared ideas and research.
About the Ian Axford Fellowship 2027
The Ian Axford Fellowship in Public Policy brings US experts to New Zealand for hands-on policy work. Fellows start with an orientation in February to learn about the local policy scene. They then tackle real-world projects, team up with experts, and talk with officials.
A key part of the program is writing a policy report. This report gets published and shared with key groups. Fellows also give talks and join events to share their findings. You can pick any policy topic, as long as it fits New Zealand’s needs or brings fresh ideas.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
Public policy issues cross borders, so global views help solve them. New Zealand leads in smart governance, social programs, and public management. The Ian Axford Fellowship 2027 lets you study these methods up close and see how they compare to US ways.
Fellows share their own skills too, making it a true exchange. This boosts relations between the two countries and improves policies on both sides. It’s a way to gain new tools for your career back home.
Benefits of the Program
This fellowship covers your needs and builds your skills. You get round-trip flights from the US to New Zealand. A monthly stipend matches your job status, plus extra help if you have family.
You’ll work in government offices, do policy research, and publish your report. Expect chances to speak at events and grow your network in policy circles. These steps give you fresh insights to use in your US role.
Who Can Apply
The Ian Axford Fellowship 2027 targets mid-career US professionals. You must be a US citizen with at least five years of work experience. Your job can be in government, business, or non-profits.
Show leadership and policy influence. Prove you want to learn from New Zealand and apply it in the US. Get your employer’s okay, including details on paid leave.
Application Steps and Deadline
Fill out the online form with your background and project idea. Explain how your work helps policy in both countries. Include employer support letter and three references.
Reviewers pick candidates based on project strength and impact. The deadline is 10:00 AM NZT on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Check the official site at axfordfellowships.org.nz/how-to-apply for details and to submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Ian Axford Fellowship 2027?
US citizens with at least five years of mid-career experience in government, business, or non-profits, plus leadership in policy and employer support.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
It covers round-trip flights, a monthly stipend matching your job status, family support if needed, and networking opportunities.
What do fellows do during the program?
Fellows join government agencies, work on policy projects, write and publish a report, and give talks at events.
When is the application deadline for 2027?
Submit by 10:00 AM NZT on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, via axfordfellowships.org.nz/how-to-apply.