Understanding the Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship
The digital world is constantly changing, bringing new challenges and opportunities in areas like law, technology, and governance. For those looking to make a difference in these fields, the Internet Law and Policy Foundry (ILPF) Fellowship offers a two-year program designed to develop emerging leaders. This fellowship is for individuals passionate about shaping the future of the internet, from artificial intelligence to digital rights.
The ILPF aims to bridge the gap between technology and public policy by cultivating professionals who can navigate complex digital issues. It’s a global program that welcomes students, researchers, legal experts, policy makers, academics, advocates, and technology professionals from all backgrounds. The goal is to create a diverse group of individuals who can contribute to important conversations about how the internet is governed and regulated.
About the Internet Law and Policy Foundry
The Internet Law and Policy Foundry is an organization focused on professional growth for future leaders in internet law and technology policy. It provides a supportive environment through mentorship, networking, collaborative projects, and events. The Foundry helps talented individuals from various professional and academic backgrounds become influential voices in technology policy. They believe that effective internet governance requires input from many different perspectives and fields.
Structure of the Fellowship Program
The ILPF Fellowship is a two-year program that does not offer a salary. Most of the work is done remotely, but fellows in the same region may meet in person when opportunities arise. Fellows can also attend major technology policy events and conferences, connecting with the broader Foundry community.
Junior Fellows are expected to dedicate about 3 to 5 hours each week to fellowship activities, programs, and committee work. While there is no requirement to live in a specific location, most Foundry activities happen during North American business hours, especially Eastern Time. Successful applicants should be prepared to participate during these times.
Committee Opportunities for Fellows
A key part of the fellowship involves participating in one of the Foundry’s committees. Applicants must rank their preferred committees, as these groups are essential to the Foundry’s mission and offer valuable leadership and development experiences.
Tech Policy Grind Podcast Committee
This committee is responsible for the production and content of the Foundry’s podcast. Members help choose topics, arrange guest speakers, develop episode ideas, and work on outreach. This role provides practical experience in media production, thought leadership, and policy communication.
Events & Fundraising Committee
This committee plans and runs many of the Foundry’s main events and networking opportunities. Members help organize conferences, professional gatherings, hackathons, and social events. They also assist with sponsorship activities and other initiatives that bring the technology policy community together.
Editorial & Content Committee
The Editorial & Content Committee focuses on creating original written content for publication. Fellows contribute articles, policy analyses, legal commentary, and opinion pieces. This committee is ideal for those looking to improve their research, writing, and policy communication skills.
Communications & Marketing Committee
Members of this committee support the Foundry’s outreach efforts. This includes managing newsletters, branding, social media, and the website. Fellows gain practical 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 provides a unique 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.
- Collaboration with experts from law, government, academia, civil society, and industry.
- Chances to publish original work.
- Participation in technology policy events and conferences.
- Development of practical skills in communications, policy analysis, event management, research, and advocacy.
- Exposure to new issues in internet governance and technology regulation.
- Long-term support for career development.
Key Areas of Interest for the Fellowship
The fellowship is especially relevant for individuals interested in:
- 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
- Emerging Technology Law
Application Timeline and Process
Applications for the 2026-2028 Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship opened on June 1, 2026. The deadline to apply is June 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Selection results are expected in mid-July 2026. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so it is recommended to apply early.
To apply, candidates must fill out an online application form. They also need to submit their resume or CV as a PDF, rank their committee preferences, and answer essay questions about technology policy, leadership, diversity, and their professional interests. Applicants are asked to explain how their experiences and viewpoints can benefit the Foundry community and promote diversity and inclusion in the internet law and policy field.
For professionals and students interested in technology governance, policy development, and digital innovation, the Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship is a valuable opportunity to build knowledge, expand professional connections, and help shape the future of the digital world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship?
It’s a two-year program designed to develop emerging leaders in internet law and technology policy, offering mentorship, networking, and collaborative projects.
Is the fellowship paid?
No, the ILPF Fellowship does not offer a salary, and most of the work is done remotely.
What is the time commitment for Junior Fellows?
Junior Fellows are expected to dedicate approximately 3 to 5 hours per week to fellowship activities, programs, and committee work.
What are the application requirements?
Applicants need to submit an online form, resume/CV, rank committee preferences, and answer essay questions about technology policy, leadership, and their professional interests.
