ICANN Fellowship Program in Lisbon
Job Description
ICANN Fellowship Program
Are you passionate about the future of the Internet, Domain Name System (DNS), Internet policy, or global digital security? The ICANN Fellowship Program offers a unique, fully funded opportunity to join one of the most important multistakeholder Internet governance communities in the world.
The current application round is open for the ICANN88 Community Forum taking place in Lisbon, Portugal from 13–18 March 2027.
What is the ICANN Fellowship Program?
The ICANN Fellowship Program aims to strengthen the multistakeholder model by creating opportunities for individuals from underserved and underrepresented communities to become active participants in the ICANN community.
Fellows receive structured training, are assigned a personal mentor, and gain hands-on exposure to how ICANN works — before, during, and after an official ICANN Public Meeting.
Key Benefits of the Fellowship
- Round-trip economy airfare (booked and paid by ICANN)
- Hotel accommodation during the meeting
- Stipend of up to USD 500 for meals, local transport, and incidentals
- Visa cost reimbursement of up to USD 200
- Dedicated mentor from the ICANN community
- Comprehensive training and capacity-building sessions
- Certificate of completion upon successful participation
- Access to a global network of Internet governance professionals
Who Can Apply?
Candidates from all regions and sectors are welcome. Priority is given to applicants from underserved and underrepresented communities.
Main eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Show interest in, or existing engagement with, ICANN’s work in policy development, Domain Name System operations, or the security and stability of the global Internet
- Complete the mandatory ICANN Learn course(s) before applying
- Not be involved in any other ICANN-supported travel program at the time of selection
- Have received no more than two previous ICANN Fellowships (returning fellows must demonstrate active community engagement)
Note: Policy Forum fellowships are only open to previous ICANN Fellowship alumni.
Why Apply?
This program is one of the best entry points into global Internet governance. Fellows gain practical knowledge, build international networks, and can later contribute to ICANN Supporting Organizations and Advisory Committees. Many alumni go on to take leadership roles in the community.
Important Dates – ICANN88 (Lisbon)
- Application Opens: 21 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 21 August 2026 at 23:59 UTC
- Selected Fellows Announced: 10 November 2026
- Meeting Dates: 13–18 March 2027 in Lisbon, Portugal
If the meeting is held virtually, the Fellowship Program will also be virtual.
How to Apply
- Create an ICANN Account (required)
- Complete the mandatory ICANN Learn courses
- Submit your application through the official ICANN Fellowship portal
- Official application page
- Deadline is approaching — 21 August 2026. Don’t miss this chance to help shape the future of the Internet.
