Stanton Fellowship 2026 Application Guide
Are you a leader in Los Angeles County ready to tackle big challenges with fresh ideas? The Stanton Fellowship 2026 offers a rare chance for experienced change-makers to step back, explore bold solutions, and connect with others. Offered by the Durfee Foundation, this program gives $100,000 over two years to up to six fellows each year. It focuses on high-impact work for the Los Angeles area.
Application Timeline
Key dates help you plan ahead for the Stanton Fellowship 2026. Applications open on April 1. The deadline is June 24, so mark your calendar.
Site visits happen from August 4 to 27. Award notifications come in early September. The in-person orientation starts in January 2027.
For questions, email [email protected].
About the Stanton Fellowship
The Stanton Fellowship 2026 supports leaders who want to dig into tough issues facing Los Angeles County. It provides time and money to chase new ideas, not just quick fixes. Fellows get space to think deeply and test approaches that fit their regular jobs might not allow.
Funding totals $100,000 over two years. Use it for travel, meetings, research help, conferences, or team activities. The goal is flexible support for real innovation and teamwork across fields.
Fellowship Experience
This program builds a group of diverse leaders who learn from each other. Fellows join retreats, meetings, and sharing sessions. It creates strong bonds and new ways of thinking.
Expect at least three months of focused project time over two years. Take it in blocks of two weeks or more. Attend three overnight retreats and six full-day cohort meetings.
Fellows also share what they learn with their networks and wider groups. Active involvement helps everyone grow.
Eligibility Criteria
Not everyone qualifies for the Stanton Fellowship 2026. Check these basics first.
You must live in Los Angeles County and work at an organization based there. Show at least 10 years of leadership in nonprofits, government, arts, social movements, or social business. Influence peers, leaders, or the public.
Propose a clear “big question” to explore over two years. Prove you need the funds as extra support. Commit to all events and time needs.
You cannot get this if you have similar backing from work or school. Skip it if you had a Durfee Sabbatical in the last five years.
The Durfee Foundation welcomes applicants from groups serving Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.
Review Criteria
Judges score applications in three main areas for the Stanton Fellowship 2026.
The Candidate
They check if you lead in your field with a solid reputation. Show you welcome new tests and have ways to share results. Prove you can step away from daily tasks and join the group well. Lack of other research options helps your case.
The Inquiry
Your project must tackle a key Los Angeles County problem. Make it clear, original, and doable in two years. Plan how to use time and money smartly.
Timing
Explain why now fits your career stage. Show urgency for your question. Confirm your life and work allow full focus.
Program Goals
The Stanton Fellowship 2026 pushes leaders to study big issues deeply. It forms a mix of experts from different areas to spark ideas and links. Results aim to shape systems and help communities across Los Angeles County.
How to Apply
Ready to apply for the Stanton Fellowship 2026? Build a strong proposal on your question and plan. Submit by June 24.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the Stanton Fellowship 2026?
Applications open on April 1 and the deadline is June 24. Mark your calendar to apply on time.
Who is eligible for the Stanton Fellowship 2026?
You must live and work in Los Angeles County with at least 10 years of leadership in nonprofits, government, arts, or similar fields.
What funding does the Stanton Fellowship provide?
Fellows get $100,000 over two years for travel, research, meetings, or team activities to explore big ideas.
What are the main commitments for Stanton Fellows?
Expect at least three months of project time, three overnight retreats, and six full-day cohort meetings over two years.