ReNew Democracy Foundation Fellowship 2026
- Omran Aburayya
- May 9
- 2 min read
If you're a recent graduate passionate about public policy and eager to gain firsthand experience in the U.S. legislative process, the ReNew Democracy Fellowship 2026 offers a transformative opportunity. This nine-month, fully funded program places emerging leaders in U.S. House of Representatives offices, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and networks necessary to drive pragmatic, solutions-oriented policymaking. Applications are now open and will close on June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT.
📝ReNew Democracy Fellowship Summary
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Host Institution: ReNew Democracy Foundation
Academic Level: Postgraduate (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree holders)
Target Group: Emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds across the U.S.
Fields of Focus: Public policy areas such as housing, healthcare, workforce development, and technology
Award Value:
$5,500 monthly stipend
$1,000 relocation reimbursement
Comprehensive professional development and mentorship
Duration: January 5 – September 25, 2026
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents authorized to work full-time without restrictions
📚 Fellowship Overview
The ReNew Democracy Fellowship is designed to bridge the gap between academic achievement and impactful public service. Fellows will be embedded within the offices of Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, engaging directly with legislative processes, stakeholder meetings, and policy research. Each fellow will focus on a key policy area, gaining insights into congressional procedures and the dynamics of the House.
🧩 Program Components:
NextGen New Dem Staff Academy: A flagship training program equipping fellows with essential skills for congressional roles.
Workshops and Policy Labs: Sessions covering communications, legislative strategy, constituent services, and more.
Mentorship: Pairing each fellow with an experienced public servant or policy expert for guidance and support.
Networking Opportunities: Engagements with current Hill staffers, elected officials, and thought leaders.
Capstone Project: Development and presentation of an independent policy or advocacy project.
🎁 Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support:
Monthly stipend of $5,500 to cover living expenses in Washington, D.C.
$1,000 relocation reimbursement to assist with moving costs
Professional Development:
Access to the NextGen New Dem Staff Academy and specialized workshops
One-on-one mentorship from seasoned policy professionals
Opportunities to build a robust professional network within the policy sphere
Guidance and support in developing a capstone project
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be lawfully authorized to work full-time in the U.S. without restrictions (note: the fellowship does not sponsor visas).
Have completed an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution by December 31, 2025.
Be able to relocate to Washington, D.C., by January 4, 2026, and reside there for the fellowship's duration.
Commit to full-time, in-person participation from January 5 to September 25, 2026.
Demonstrate academic aptitude and a strong interest in public policy and service.
ℹ️ The ReNew Democracy Foundation strongly encourages applications from individuals who identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, Native American, Indigenous, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino/Latina/Latiné/Latinx, Middle Eastern or North African, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, disabled, LGBTQ+, and/or veterans.
📝 Application Procedure
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT
Application Portal: ReNew Democracy Fellowship Application
Required Documents:
Updated resume
Personal statement outlining interest in public service and policy
Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
