The ICANN85 Fellowship Program empowers individuals from underserved and underrepresented communities by enabling them to actively engage in global internet governance. Fellows receive comprehensive training, mentorship, and travel support to attend ICANN meetings, where they participate in sessions related to domain name systems, internet policy, and cybersecurity.
The ICANN85 Community Forum will take place 7–12 March 2026 in Mumbai, India (in person or virtually).
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When is the Application Deadline:
22 August 2025 at 23:59 UTC (for ICANN85 Fellowship Program)
📚 Which Fields are Eligible?
Relevant fields include (but are not limited to):
- Internet governance
- Domain Name System (DNS) operations
- Internet security and stability
- Digital policy and civil society
- ICT and telecom regulation
- Cyberlaw and privacy
📌 Type:
Fully Funded International Internet Governance Fellowship
🧑💼 Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 21 years or older by the meeting date
- Be interested in or already engaged in ICANN’s work (policy, DNS, security, etc.)
- Complete mandatory ICANN Learn courses
- Not be receiving support from any other ICANN travel program at time of selection
- Have received no more than two fellowships (returning fellows must show engagement in ICANN communities)
- Policy Forum applicants must be Fellowship alumni
⚙️ How are Applicants Selected?
A competitive selection process based on:
- Geographic, sectoral, and gender diversity
- Level of interest and experience in internet-related issues
- Prior contributions to ICANN or local internet governance efforts
- Successful completion of ICANN Learn courses and mentoring requirements
Special recognitions include:
- Tarek Kamel Fellowship Recognition (for outstanding returning fellows)
- Paul Muchene Fellow Award (for technical applicants from Africa)
🌍 Which Countries Are Eligible?
Open to all countries, with priority for underserved and underrepresented regions.
📍 Where Will the Fellowship Take Place?
ICANN85 Community Forum — Mumbai, India
(7–12 March 2026; virtual participation possible if the event is online)
🔢 How Many Fellowships Are Available?
Not specified — highly selective, based on regional representation and merit.
💰 What is the Benefit of the Fellowship?
- ✈️ Travel support to Mumbai
- 🏨 Accommodation and daily expenses for the duration of the forum
- 🌐 Virtual participation support if the event is held online
- 🧑🏫 Mentorship and training before, during, and after the event
- 🌍 Opportunity to join the ICANN global alumni network
⏳ How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
Includes:
- Pre-event learning and mentoring
- Full participation in ICANN85 (6 days)
- Post-event follow-up and alumni engagement
📝 How to Apply:
- Create or log in to your ICANN Account
- Complete the online application and ICANN Learn courses
- Submit your application before the deadline
