Tech Matters Fellowship: A Path for Purpose-Driven Tech Professionals
Many nonprofit organizations and social impact initiatives face challenges with outdated technology and a lack of expert digital guidance. To address this, Tech Matters has introduced a remote fellowship opportunity for individuals eager to use technology for positive global change. This fellowship offers a unique chance to work with Jim Fruchterman, founder and CEO of Tech Matters, on projects that tackle significant global issues. It’s designed for those looking to move beyond traditional tech careers and contribute to social innovation and ethical technology development.
About Tech Matters
Tech Matters is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using technology to support the social sector and create large-scale positive impacts. They collaborate with nonprofits and mission-driven partners to develop technology solutions for widespread societal problems. Unlike many for-profit tech companies, Tech Matters focuses on ensuring technology benefits vulnerable and underserved populations often overlooked by the mainstream tech industry. The organization is known for its work in open-source software, technology for nonprofits, data governance, ethical AI, and capacity building for social impact.
A Fellowship Focused on Technology for Humanity
The Tech for Good Project Fellow will work closely with Jim Fruchterman, a respected leader in technology and social innovation. Fruchterman is a MacArthur Fellow and a Skoll Award recipient, known for advocating technology-driven social impact. This fellowship aims to ensure technology better serves the majority of humanity, who are often neglected by the commercial tech world. It’s not just a coding role; it combines project management, research, data analysis, policy thinking, social impact strategy, AI and governance experimentation, and communication. This position is ideal for professionals interested in the intersection of technology, ethics, nonprofit innovation, AI governance, public interest technology, and systems transformation.
Major Fellowship Projects and Responsibilities
Fellows may contribute to one or more key initiatives, depending on their skills and the number of participants.
Expanding the Better Deal for Data Initiative
One significant project involves helping nonprofits adopt and use the Better Deal for Data framework. This initiative focuses on ethical data governance, responsible data stewardship, and practical standards for nonprofit data management. The goal is to build trust in digital systems used by social organizations. Fellows might work directly with nonprofits implementing these standards and support broader sector-wide adoption efforts.
Improving AI and Search Engine Responses on Critical Social Issues
Another innovative area involves experimenting with ways to improve how large language models (LLMs) and search engines address critical social challenges. Initial efforts will likely focus on preventing child sexual abuse, improving information reliability, and developing ethical AI responses. This work places fellows at the forefront of discussions about responsible artificial intelligence and technology ethics.
Supporting an Open Global Course on Technology for Good
Fellows may also help develop an open-access educational course based on Jim Fruchterman’s book, Technology for Good. This course will be freely available worldwide under a Creative Commons license and is set to launch in September 2026. It will focus on practical technology applications for social impact, reflecting Tech Matters’ commitment to sharing knowledge and expanding access to mission-driven technology education.
Fellowship Structure and Duration
This is a fully remote position, open to applicants globally. The fellowship is designed to last approximately six to twelve months, with flexible start dates. It is structured to help professionals transition into the nonprofit or social impact sector. Many past fellows have successfully moved from commercial tech careers to purpose-driven work through similar opportunities.
Compensation and Benefits
US-based fellows will receive a salary between US$70,000 and US$80,000, with compensation adjusted for international fellows based on local conditions. Additional benefits include flexible working hours, a remote work environment, early responsibility, and a collaborative team culture. Fellows will have the chance to work closely with recognized leaders in social innovation. For those in the United States, health and related insurance coverage are provided.
Who Should Apply?
Tech Matters seeks candidates who understand technology and possess strong communication skills and social impact awareness. Ideal applicants care about technology for social good, enjoy mission-driven environments, and are comfortable working remotely. They should also align with Tech Matters’ core values of impact, empathy, and collaboration.
Diversity and Inclusion Commitment
Tech Matters is committed to inclusive hiring and encourages applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and those from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. They recognize that strong candidates may not meet every requirement and encourage those with relevant passion and transferable experience to apply.
Application Requirements
Applicants need to submit a PDF resume and a personalized cover letter. The cover letter is especially important, as applicants must explain why the role resonates with them, their interest in technology for social good, and why the organization’s mission is important to them. Applications should be sent via email.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
In a time of rapid advancements in AI, ethical technology, and social innovation, this fellowship offers a rare chance to contribute to impactful global initiatives. Fellows will work alongside leaders shaping the future of public-interest technology. Instead of focusing solely on profit, the fellowship prioritizes human-centered technology, ethical design, nonprofit digital transformation, global accessibility, and sustainable social impact. For professionals seeking careers that combine tech expertise with meaningful global impact, the Tech for Good Project Fellowship is a unique and influential opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tech Matters Fellowship?
It’s a remote fellowship for tech professionals who want to use their skills to create positive global change and support nonprofit organizations.
What kind of projects will fellows work on?
Projects include expanding ethical data governance frameworks, improving AI responses to social issues, and supporting an open course on technology for good.
How long does the fellowship last and is it remote?
The fellowship is fully remote and typically lasts six to twelve months, with flexible start dates.
What are the application requirements?
Applicants need to submit a PDF resume and a cover letter explaining their interest in the role and the organization’s mission.
