Applications are now open for the Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship 2026. Join a world-class network of changemakers, innovators, and thought leaders committed to solving global challenges through collaboration, creativity, and sustainable impact.
About the Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship 2026
The Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship is a prestigious international program that empowers visionary leaders, researchers, and innovators to develop breakthrough solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
Through fellowships and convenings—including the Bellagio Center Residency, Big Bets Fellowships, and Global Convenings and Communities—the Foundation invests in individuals and organizations working at the intersection of climate resilience, health equity, food systems, energy access, and social innovation.
Since its inception, the Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship has provided a collaborative environment for emerging and established leaders to share ideas, spark innovation, and catalyze global change.
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Fellowship Overview
The 2026 Global Fellowship is part of the Foundation’s broader mission to advance human opportunity and promote social equity worldwide. Fellows participate in intensive leadership development, global networking, and high-level convenings designed to scale their ideas and impact.
The program supports individuals and groups through three main initiatives:
1. Big Bets Fellowships
Designed for exceptional leaders advancing transformative ideas in global health, climate, and sustainability.
- Fellows receive training in strategic leadership, communication, and systems thinking.
- Focus areas include climate adaptation, AI for good, public health innovation, and food system transformation.
2. Global Convenings and Communities
These convenings gather leaders across disciplines to collaborate on breakthrough solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Platforms include workshops, networking events, and collaborative project labs.
- Participants work across the 17 SDGs to develop actionable roadmaps for real-world implementation.
3. The Bellagio Center Program
For over 60 years, the Bellagio Center in Italy has been a cornerstone of the Rockefeller Foundation’s mission to foster global collaboration.
- The Center hosts about 60 group convenings and 100 individual residencies annually.
- It brings together academics, policymakers, artists, activists, and innovators to engage in month-long residencies or week-long retreats.
- The program enables participants to focus on projects that contribute to solving global issues while engaging with an international network of peers.
Why Apply?
The Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship is not just a professional development opportunity—it’s a transformational leadership experience that accelerates both personal and societal impact.
Key Benefits:
✅ Global Platform: Access to an influential international network of changemakers and thought leaders.
✅ Residency or Convening: Opportunity to attend programs at the Bellagio Center in Italy or participate in international gatherings.
✅ Mentorship and Collaboration: Work with world-class mentors, policymakers, and innovators.
✅ Visibility and Support: Fellows gain exposure through the Foundation’s media channels and collaborative projects.
✅ Fully Funded Participation: Accommodation, meals, and travel for in-person residencies are covered by the Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Be emerging or established leaders with a demonstrated commitment to public service, innovation, or social impact.
- Have a strong track record of leadership in their sector (academia, government, non-profit, or private industry).
- Present a clear and innovative project or initiative aligned with the Foundation’s mission.
- Be fluent in English (the working language of the Fellowship).
- Be available for the full duration of the program (residency or convening, depending on placement).
There are no nationality restrictions—applicants from all countries are encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Duration and Format
The Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship opportunities vary by stream:
| Stream | Duration | Format | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bets Fellowship | 6–12 months | Hybrid (online + in-person) | Global / Remote |
| Global Convenings | 1 week | In-person | Various international locations |
| Bellagio Center Residency | 1 month | In-person | Bellagio, Italy |
Thematic Focus Areas for 2026
The 2026 Fellowship Cohort will prioritize projects and innovations in the following key areas:
- Climate Action and Resilience
- Health Equity and Pandemic Preparedness
- Sustainable Food Systems
- AI and Digital Transformation for Social Good
- Energy Access and Just Transitions
- Gender Equality and Inclusive Economies
Application Process
Applications for the Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship 2026 are now open.
Step 1 – Prepare Your Materials
Before starting your application, prepare the following:
- Personal Statement detailing your leadership journey and motivation.
- Project Proposal (maximum 1,000 words) outlining your initiative’s goals, impact, and relevance to the Foundation’s mission.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Professional Biography.
- Two Letters of Recommendation from mentors or professional contacts.
Step 2 – Apply Online
Submit your application through the official Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship portal:
🔗 https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/fellowships
Step 3 – Review and Selection
Applications are reviewed based on leadership potential, project innovation, and alignment with global impact goals.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual interview or written assessment.
APPLY NOW
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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- Gates Foundation Internship Program 2025 – Apply for Global Roles
Important Dates
- Applications Open: November 2025
- Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
- Notification of Results: May 2026
- Fellowship Commencement: July–September 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Rockefeller Fellowship paid?
Yes. The fellowship covers all costs associated with participation, including travel, accommodation, and meals during residencies or convenings.
2. Can I apply as a team or organization?
Yes. Teams working on collaborative projects may apply, though each participant must submit an individual application.
3. Do I need an existing project to apply?
Applicants must propose a clear initiative or area of work demonstrating potential for large-scale impact.
4. Is the program open to all nationalities?
Yes. The Rockefeller Foundation encourages global participation and values diversity of thought and background.
5. What types of leaders are selected?
Fellows come from diverse sectors—academia, public service, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and the arts—united by a commitment to advancing the public good.
Final Thoughts
The Rockefeller Foundation Global Fellowship 2026 is more than an opportunity—it’s a movement. It gathers the brightest global minds to design bold, sustainable solutions that redefine what’s possible for humanity.
If you are a visionary leader passionate about addressing global challenges and ready to collaborate on transformative initiatives, this fellowship is your platform to make a lasting impact.
🌍 Apply Now: https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/fellowships
📅 Deadline: February 28, 2026
📍 Location: Global / Bellagio, Italy
Keywords: Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship 2026, Bellagio Center Fellowship, Fully Funded Global Fellowships, Leadership Development Program, SDG Fellowships 2026, Climate Action Fellowship, Social Innovation, Global Leadership Opportunities
