The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has officially opened applications for the ICANN88 Fellowship Program, offering individuals from around the world the opportunity to participate in the ICANN88 Community Forum scheduled to take place 13–18 March 2027 in Lisbon, Portugal.
This prestigious fully funded fellowship is designed to empower emerging Internet leaders, policymakers, researchers, technical professionals, academics, and stakeholders who are passionate about Internet governance and the future of the global Internet.
Applications are now open and will close on 21 August 2026 at 23:59 UTC. Successful applicants will be announced on 10 November 2026.
What is the ICANN Fellowship Program?
The ICANN Fellowship Program is a global capacity-building initiative that helps individuals from underserved and underrepresented communities become active participants in the ICANN multistakeholder ecosystem.
Selected Fellows receive mentorship, training, and the opportunity to engage directly with Internet governance discussions, policy development, Domain Name System (DNS) operations, and initiatives that promote the security, stability, and resilience of the global Internet.
The program also provides travel support for eligible participants attending ICANN Public Meetings in person. Should the meeting be held virtually, the fellowship activities will also be conducted online.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants can expect to receive:
- Fully funded participation in the ICANN88 Community Forum in Lisbon, Portugal.
- Travel support, accommodation, and other approved meeting expenses.
- Access to experienced mentors within the ICANN community.
- Professional development through training before, during, and after the meeting.
- Networking opportunities with Internet governance experts, policymakers, governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
- Exposure to global Internet policy discussions and technical coordination initiatives.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship welcomes applicants from all countries and regions who have an interest in:
- Internet Governance
- Domain Name System (DNS)
- Internet Policy Development
- Cybersecurity and Internet Stability
- Digital Policy
- Technical Internet Operations
- Multistakeholder Internet Governance
Applicants must generally:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Demonstrate interest or involvement in ICANN’s work.
- Complete required ICANN Learn courses.
- Meet the Fellowship Program’s eligibility requirements and selection criteria.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 21 July 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 21 August 2026 (23:59 UTC) |
| Successful Fellows Announced | 10 November 2026 |
| ICANN88 Community Forum | 13–18 March 2027 |
| Venue | Lisbon, Portugal |
About ICANN
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a global nonprofit organization established in 1998 to help ensure that the Internet remains stable, secure, and interoperable.
ICANN coordinates the Internet’s unique identifier systems—including domain names and IP addresses—through a multistakeholder model that brings together governments, businesses, technical experts, civil society, and Internet users from around the world. This collaborative approach helps maintain a single, open, and globally connected Internet.
Why You Should Apply
Whether you are an ICT professional, software developer, researcher, academic, policymaker, cybersecurity specialist, or student interested in Internet governance, the ICANN Fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity to:
- Expand your global professional network.
- Gain first-hand experience in Internet governance processes.
- Contribute to discussions shaping the future of the Internet.
- Build leadership skills through mentorship and international collaboration.
- Represent your country and community in global Internet policy conversations.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications before 21 August 2026 (23:59 UTC) through the official ICANN Fellowship Program portal.
For complete eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and submission instructions, visit the official ICANN Fellowship page.
This is an outstanding opportunity for aspiring Internet leaders to gain international exposure while contributing to the future of a secure, stable, and inclusive Internet.
Photo Credit: ICANN Flickr