McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026: Apply Now
Are you a Ukrainian professional eager to help rebuild your country after the war? The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026 offers a chance to build key skills and connect with experts worldwide. This fully funded program runs from July to September 2026 and mixes online sessions with an in-person workshop.
About the Fellowship
The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship comes from the McCain Institute at Arizona State University. It aims to train Ukrainian leaders for a democratic and strong future. The program honors Senator John McCain, who supported Ukraine’s independence.
This pilot effort focuses on post-war recovery. Fellows will join virtual modules on leadership and group projects. They will also create plans for inclusive rebuilding in their communities.
A major part is a week-long workshop in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from August 15 to 22, 2026. The institute covers all costs, including travel and lodging. There, participants meet face-to-face to share ideas and solve problems.
Why It Matters for Ukraine
Rebuilding Ukraine goes beyond fixing roads and buildings. Leaders must tackle issues in government, economy, society, and the environment. The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship prepares people for these tasks.
It stresses democracy, fairness, and local input. Fellows learn to work across fields like policy and business. This teamwork leads to better solutions that help everyone.
The program also builds global ties. Ukrainian experts gain views from international partners. This mix of local knowledge and outside help speeds up recovery.
Key Benefits for Participants
Joining the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship brings real gains. First, it is fully funded, so no costs for the workshop. You get training in leadership for tough recovery challenges.
Skills include better communication and writing proposals. Meet experts in policy and rebuilding. Build networks in places like Washington, D.C.
Work with leaders from different areas, such as veterans or media. At the end, develop action plans and policy ideas. These tools let you make a difference back home.
Who Can Apply
Certain rules apply for the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship. You must live in Ukraine and have at least six years of work experience. English skills at a working level are needed.
Get approval from the Ukrainian government to travel abroad for the workshop. Open fields include policy, civil society, business, environment, media, and culture. Applications from outside Kyiv are welcome to add variety.
A background check is part of the process. This ensures a safe and trusted group.
How to Apply
Start by gathering your documents for the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship. Prepare a CV up to two pages. Write a one-page cover letter on your reasons and background.
Add a one-page essay. Cover challenges in your field after the war, links to other areas, and how the program helps you. Submit everything on the official site.
The deadline is April 30, 2026, at 17:00 EST. Late or missing items will not count. Check the McCain Institute website for the application link and details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship?
It is a fully funded program by the McCain Institute to train Ukrainian leaders for post-war recovery, with online sessions and a week-long workshop in Sarajevo from August 15-22, 2026.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Ukrainian residents with at least six years of work experience in fields like policy, business, or media, good English skills, and government approval to travel abroad.
What are the key benefits for participants?
Participants get fully funded training in leadership, networking with experts, and tools to create action plans for rebuilding their communities.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Submit a CV, cover letter, and essay via the McCain Institute website by April 30, 2026, at 17:00 EST; incomplete applications will not be accepted.