Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026: $35,000 for Tech Equity Work

The Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026 offers $35,000 in funding to journalists and tech policy researchers. This program supports work that uncovers inequities in technology and pushes for fairer systems. If you focus on AI ethics, tech policy, or inclusive tech, this could help fund your next big project.

About the Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship

The Kapor Foundation runs this fellowship to back investigative journalists and researchers. Their goal is to spotlight problems in the tech world, like unfair access to AI tools or biased algorithms. Fellows get money to create reports or studies that shape better policies and tech practices.

Applications are open on a rolling basis. The first awards will come out by June 30, 2026. Up to 15 people will receive support for projects tied to national issues or cities like Oakland, Atlanta, or Detroit.

Focus Areas

Projects must fit into one or more key topics. These areas guide the fellowship’s priorities.

CS/AI Education

This covers ways to give more people access to computer science and AI classes. It looks at gaps in learning paths for tech skills. Fellows can study policies that make AI education fair and safe.

Innovation

Here, the focus is on building AI and tech that benefits everyone. Researchers examine the upsides and downsides of AI funding. The program also supports startups and businesses that include people from all backgrounds.

Governance

This area deals with rules for tech companies. It includes fighting bias in algorithms and protecting data privacy. Projects aim to shield groups often hurt by tech, like low-income communities.

Funding and Benefits

Each fellow gets $35,000 to cover their project costs. This money helps produce detailed reports or policy papers that get published. The fellowship picks projects with real potential to change tech for the better.

Eligibility Criteria

You need to meet specific rules based on your role.

For Investigative Reporting Fellows

Journalists must live in the United States. They need at least five years of experience in deep reporting. A promise from a media outlet to publish the work is required.

For Tech Policy Research Fellows

Researchers must work with U.S.-based nonprofits, like 501c3 groups. They should have a background in CS/AI education or tech policy.

Application Requirements

Put together these items to apply:

• A short bio, up to 250 words.
• Your CV or resume.
• Two samples of your past published work.
• A project proposal, 2 to 5 pages long.
• A timeline for your work and a plan to share results.
• A short summary of your research.
• Extra papers, like an editor’s letter for journalists.

Follow the formatting rules on the application site. Submit everything online.

Fellowship Expectations

Once picked, fellows must finish strong, publishable work. They send updates on progress and share the final product. Publications should thank the Kapor Foundation. Fellows also plan ways to spread their findings widely.

How to Apply

Prepare your documents and use the official portal. There is no set deadline since it’s rolling. Check the Kapor Foundation site for full details.

Frequently Asked Questions