Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship: A Guide for Aspiring Leaders

The digital world is constantly changing, bringing new challenges and opportunities in law, technology, and policy. For those looking to shape the future of the internet, the Internet Law and Policy Foundry (ILPF) Fellowship offers a unique two-year program. This fellowship is designed for emerging leaders who want to deepen their understanding and contribute to important discussions about how technology and governance intersect. As technology advances rapidly, there’s a growing need for professionals who can connect the dots between technical innovation and public policy. The ILPF Fellowship aims to develop these exact leaders.

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 space for participants to gain knowledge, build connections, and work on projects that address current digital policy issues. Through mentorship, networking, and collaborative work, the Foundry helps individuals from various backgrounds become influential voices in technology policy. The program values diverse experiences and viewpoints, recognizing that effective internet governance requires input from many different fields and perspectives.

Fellowship Structure and Expectations

The ILPF Fellowship is a two-year, unpaid professional development program. While most activities happen online, fellows often connect in person with others in their region when possible. Fellows may also attend major technology policy events and conferences, including opportunities to engage with the broader Foundry community. Junior Fellows are expected to dedicate about 3 to 5 hours each week to fellowship activities, programming, and committee work. Although there is no strict residency requirement, most Foundry activities take place during North American business hours, particularly Eastern Time (ET). Successful applicants should be prepared to participate during these times.

Committee Opportunities for Skill Development

All applicants must choose their preferred committees, which are central 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 discussion topics, find guest speakers, develop episode ideas, and assist with promotion. This role provides practical experience in media production, thought leadership, and policy communication.

Events & Fundraising Committee

The Events & Fundraising Committee plans and runs many of the Foundry’s key programs and networking events. Committee members help organize conferences, professional gatherings, hackathons, and other initiatives that bring together the technology policy community. They also assist with sponsorship activities.

Editorial & Content Committee

This committee focuses on creating original written content for publication. Fellows contribute articles, policy analyses, legal commentary, opinion pieces, and guides. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to improve their research, writing, and policy communication abilities.

Communications & Marketing Committee

Members of this committee support the Foundry’s outreach efforts. This includes managing newsletters, branding, social media, and the organization’s website. Fellows gain hands-on experience in strategic communications while helping to share the Foundry’s work.

Benefits of Applying to the Fellowship

The Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship offers a 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 experts, opportunities for professional growth and leadership, and collaboration with professionals from law, government, academia, civil society, and industry. Fellows can also publish their original work, participate in technology policy events, and develop practical skills in areas like communications, policy analysis, and research. The program provides exposure to new issues in internet governance and technology regulation, along with long-term career support.

Key Areas of Focus for the Fellowship

The fellowship is particularly beneficial for individuals interested in a range of topics related to the internet and technology. These include Artificial Intelligence Governance, Internet Governance, Cybersecurity Policy, and Data Privacy and Protection. Other relevant areas are Platform Accountability, Digital Rights, Telecommunications Policy, and Content Moderation. The program also covers Online Safety, Technology Regulation, Digital Trade, and the legal aspects of Emerging Technologies.

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 (ET). Selection results are expected in mid-July 2026. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so submitting early is recommended.

To apply, candidates must complete an online application form. They will also need to submit their resume or CV in PDF format, rank their committee preferences, and answer essay questions about technology policy, leadership, diversity, and their professional interests. Applicants are encouraged to explain how their unique experiences and perspectives can contribute to the Foundry community and promote diversity and inclusion in the internet law and policy field. This fellowship is a valuable opportunity for professionals and students wanting to engage in technology governance and policy development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Internet Law and Policy Foundry Fellowship?

It’s a two-year, unpaid professional development program for emerging leaders interested in shaping the future of internet law, technology, and policy.

What is the time commitment for a fellow?

Junior Fellows are expected to commit about 3 to 5 hours each week to fellowship activities, programming, and committee work.

What are the committee opportunities available?

Opportunities include the Tech Policy Grind Podcast, Events & Fundraising, Editorial & Content, and Communications & Marketing committees, each offering unique skill development.