The Hurford Youth Fellowship Program is an elite opportunity for young activists (under 30) to spend three months in Washington, D.C. at the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Fellows work with the World Movement for Democracy to build their leadership skills and strengthen global networks for democratic advocacy.
Program Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Host Organization | National Endowment for Democracy (NED) |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Fellowship Duration | 3 Months (March 1 – May 31) |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Airfare, Stipend, Insurance) |
| Application Cycle | Opens annually in June |
| Deadline (for 2026/27) | Expected July 31, 2026 |
Fellowship Benefits
As a fully funded program, the Hurford Foundation covers all major costs to ensure fellows can focus on their research and networking:
- Monthly Stipend: A living allowance to cover housing, meals, and local transit in D.C.
- Travel: Round-trip economy class airfare to and from Washington, D.C.
- Health Insurance: Basic health coverage for the duration of the stay.
- Workspace: A fully equipped office with internet access at the NED headquarters.
- Networking: Strategic meetings with diplomats, policymakers, and global activists.
Core Fellowship Themes
Your project proposal must align with one of the following priority areas:
- Expanding Civic Space for Young People: Strategies to protect and grow youth participation in civil society.
- Countering Disinformation: Building digital literacy and fact-checking resilience in democratic movements.
- Building Citizen-Centric Accountability: Strengthening the transparency of government institutions.
- Delivering Democracy: Showing how democratic systems can effectively solve local community problems.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Applicants must be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Experience: Must demonstrate a strong track record of activism or community leadership.
- Language: Proficiency in English is mandatory for research and general communication.
- Nationality: Open to citizens of any country worldwide.
Application Checklist
- Online Application Form: Available via the official portal.
- Project Proposal: A detailed plan (max 1,200 words) of what you intend to achieve in D.C.
- CV/Resume: Highlighting your professional and activist background.
- Two Recommendation Letters: From individuals familiar with your commitment to democracy.