The Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship 2026 offers a chance for journalists and researchers to tackle big issues in tech. With grants up to $35,000, this program funds work on inequities in the tech world, especially around responsible AI and tech ethics. Applications are open now on a rolling basis, so you can apply anytime.
What the Fellowship Covers
This fellowship supports two main groups. First, it helps journalists create long-form investigative reports. These are deep stories that uncover facts about tech problems. Second, it backs researchers at policy institutes who do studies, analysis, or evaluations to shape tech policies.
The goal is clear: use research to break down barriers in tech. Fellows explore issues like unfair systems in computer science, AI education, and tech rules. By funding this work, the Kapor Foundation aims to spark real changes.
Key Focus Areas
Projects must fit into one of three priority areas, with a strong push for responsible AI and tech ethics:
- CS/AI Education: This covers how computer science and artificial intelligence are taught. Fellows might study access gaps for underserved groups or ways to make AI learning fairer.
- Innovation: Here, the focus is on new tech ideas that help fix inequities. Think about tools or methods that promote diversity in tech development.
- Governance: This area looks at rules and oversight for tech. Research could examine policies that ensure AI is used ethically and fairly.
These topics matter because tech shapes daily life, from jobs to privacy. Fellows’ work helps leaders make better decisions.
Funding and Benefits
The Kapor Foundation plans to award up to 15 grants. Each one provides $35,000 to cover project costs. This money supports time for research, travel, or tools needed for the work.
For journalists, the output is a published long-form article in print or online. For researchers, it leads to reports, articles, or briefs that influence policy. These outputs must be public, so the findings reach a wide audience.
Who Is Eligible
You need to fit one of these groups:
- Journalists: Staff or freelance reporters and editors in the US. You must have at least 5 years of investigative reporting experience. This includes data journalism or watchdog stories for print, digital, or broadcast outlets.
- Researchers: Staff at research or policy institutes. Your work should involve CS/AI education or tech policy research, analysis, or evaluation.
Both groups need a track record of published work. The fellowship targets those ready to dive into complex tech issues.
Application Requirements
To apply, prepare these items:
- A personal bio.
- CV or resume of the main researcher.
- A summary of your research project.
- Links to examples of your past published work.
Journalists have an extra step. You must include a letter from a media outlet. This letter confirms they will assign an editor and publish your story.
All projects should tie to the priority areas and stress responsible AI or tech ethics.
How to Apply
Head to the application form to submit your materials. It’s straightforward, but make sure everything is complete. For full details, check the Kapor Foundation page.
Since it’s rolling, strong applications get reviewed as they come in. Start gathering your documents today to join this effort for fairer tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kapor Foundation Research Fellowship?
It funds journalists and researchers to study tech inequities, especially responsible AI and ethics, with grants up to $35,000. Applications are open on a rolling basis.
Who is eligible for the fellowship?
US journalists with 5+ years of investigative experience and researchers at policy institutes focused on CS/AI or tech policy. Both need a track record of published work.
What topics does the fellowship cover?
Projects focus on CS/AI education, innovation for equity, and tech governance, with emphasis on responsible AI and ethics.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Submit your bio, CV, project summary, past work links, and for journalists, a media outlet letter via the online form. Check the Kapor Foundation site for details.